IGP chief: Fewer corruption cases, but the problem persists
Corruption in the police system of the Republic of Moldova has decreased in recent years, but it has not been eliminated, and isolated cases continue to be documented. The head of the General Police Inspectorate, Viorel Cernăuțeanu, says that the phenomenon remains influenced by the human factor and by conditions within the system, including the low level of salaries.
“Compared to previous years, we have a decrease in major corrupt acts. At the same time, we cannot say that the factor has been completely reduced, because unfortunately, in many circumstances, the human factor, as well as situations related to personal life and situational determinations, still lead to cases being recorded,” Cernăuțeanu said in an interview for the portal “Cu sens”.
According to him, the reduction of the phenomenon is largely linked to limiting direct contact between police officers and citizens, as well as to the introduction of monitoring technologies. “We have reduced direct interaction to a minimum, and where it exists, it is monitored through bodycams and other video systems,” the IGP chief explained.
Another sign considered positive is an increase in reports of attempted corruption from within the institution itself. In 2025, police officers reported a record number of such cases, which, according to the IGP leadership, indicates a change in employees' mentality.
Also, Cernăuțeanu maintains that, in addition to control and monitoring measures, it is necessary to improve working conditions to reduce employees’ vulnerability. “I do not tolerate acts of corruption, but we also need to look at how we increase motivation and improve conditions within the system,” he stressed.
In parallel, the IGP has intensified internal control measures. Cernăuțeanu mentioned that employees are periodically trained and their integrity is constantly monitored. At the same time, the leadership admits that not all police officers meet the standards, and in such cases sanctions or even dismissals are applied. In 2025 alone, almost 30 employees were dismissed for disciplinary offences, including actions that affected the institution's image. The IGP chief emphasizes that such behavior is not tolerated, especially given that “the majority of police officers carry out their duties professionally.”
