Moldovan PM Recean Condemns Shor Party's 'Cynical' Use of Elderly in Airport Scandal

Prime minister Dorin Recean strongly denounced the Shor criminal group's exploitation of elderly individuals to smuggle Russian money into Moldova, labeling the practice as "very cynical." His comments came amid a series of searches conducted by the Prosecutor's Office and National Police at the airport and across the country, which uncovered an illegal financing scheme for satellite parties of the former Shor formation.

The targeted individuals, carrying up to 10,000 euros each, an amount that does not require customs declaration, were paid up to 500 euros for their role in the scheme. In total, authorities seized over 1 million dollars in cash during the 135 searches at the airport and an additional 27 searches nationwide.

Recean called upon legal institutions to remain vigilant, emphasizing that such attempts to introduce illicit funds into the country will persist. The actions of the Shor group are viewed as a threat to state security, prompting the Prosecutor's Office to examine the potential crime of 'treason' in connection with the criminal group's activities.

Why this matters: The scandal highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Moldova in combating corruption and illicit financial activities. The involvement of vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, underscores the need for robust measures to protect citizens from exploitation by criminal organizations.

In a statement addressing the scandal, Prime Minister Recean stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the integrity of Moldova's financial system. He pledged the government's commitment to working closely with law enforcement agencies to dismantle criminal networks and bring those responsible to justice.

Key Takeaways

• PM Recean denounced Shor group's exploitation of elderly to smuggle Russian money
• Authorities seized over $1M in cash during 135 airport and 27 nationwide searches
• Shor group's actions viewed as a threat to state security, potential 'treason' crime
• Scandal highlights Moldova's challenges in combating corruption and illicit finance
• PM pledged govt's commitment to dismantle criminal networks and bring culprits to justice