Moldovan authorities investigate brutal teen assault in Ialoveni after viral video
Moldovan police and education officials have launched a dual investigation after two teenage girls physically assaulted a 13-year-old peer in the Ialoveni district.
The disturbing footage of the attack was recorded and shared widely on social media platforms, leading to the victim's hospitalization.
The Ministry of Education and Research is currently evaluating the school's response to determine if educators could have prevented the incident. Under Moldovan law, the parents of the aggressors may face administrative fines or criminal charges, depending on the final findings of the investigation.
Government officials demand accountability
During a government meeting on Monday, December 29, Education Minister Dan Perciun confirmed that the assault took place outside school hours. He emphasized that the victim is currently receiving all necessary medical and psychological support while the ministry investigates the staff's adherence to safety protocols.
Minister of Internal Affairs Daniela Misail-Nichitin stated that multiple individuals are being questioned. "We are currently processing evidence to determine whether this will result in parental fines or a formal criminal case," Misail-Nichitin noted, highlighting the gravity of the circumstances.
Concerns over rising systemic bullying
Psychologists warn that bullying is becoming a frequent phenomenon in rural areas, where systemic inaction often exacerbates the trauma. Expert Svetlana Gorea pointed out that the aggressors in this case were reportedly involved in prior incidents, suggesting a failure in adult intervention.
"The victim will face long-term psychological consequences," Gorea stated. "This case indicates a lack of supervision, and high-quality therapy is now essential for all parties involved to prevent further escalation."
Legal framework for student safety
The notion of "bullying" was formally integrated into Moldova’s Education Code in 2022. The law defines it as a form of psychological violence that creates an atmosphere of intimidation, legally obliging all teaching staff to report any suspected cases to the authorities.
This incident follows a pattern of digital-age violence where assaults are filmed by bystanders and distributed among students. Authorities are now under pressure to enforce stricter preventive measures within the national school system.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
