The investigation began with the seizure of smuggled cigarettes on the Prut River by Romanian border police.
“The prompt use of data and information handed over by the Romanian border police after the seizure of smuggled cigarettes on the Prut River contributed to the identification of a criminal group from the Republic of Moldova,” Moldovan law enforcement officials said on Thursday.
Four suspects detained in Moldova
Moldovan authorities have identified and detained four citizens, aged between 24 and 40, involved in the transportation and distribution of contraband cigarettes, particularly in the districts of Falesti and Ungheni.
Searches of several buildings and vehicles resulted in the seizure of more than 3,500 packs of cigarettes, as well as property relevant to the investigation, including cell phones, tracking devices, weapons and foreign currency.
In total, more than 8,000 packs of cigarettes were seized
Centralized data shows the scale of the network: a total of 8,250 packs of cigarettes were discovered and seized as a result of joint action by Romanian and Moldovan authorities.
Four suspects are under investigation for smuggling and preventive measures have been taken against them in accordance with the legislation in force. The investigation is ongoing.
