Moldovan police say criminals plotting to seize public buildings

5/10/2024 6:30

        A top police official said on Friday that criminal groups with Russian backing were intent on disrupting Moldova's presidential election, including attempts to seize government buildings.
        
        The Oct. 20 election, in which pro-European President Maia Sandu is seeking reelection, is becoming increasingly heated. The poll is being held alongside a referendum on pressing for European Union membership and officials accuse pro-Kremlin groups of offering cash for voters to reject the EU plebiscite.
        
        National police chief Viorel Cernauteanu said instances of vandals hurling paint at public buildings last month were a precursor to more serious acts.
        
        "We are looking at the intentions of such people and we are not just talking here about destabilising the situation in the country or mass disorder," he told TV8 television.
        
        "They are pursuing more ambitious goals, up to and including the seizure of state institutions."
        
        He said those behind the vandalism were being paid 5,000 euros ($5,500) for a single incident.