Moldova, Republic of Seeks to Eradicate Cross-Border Financial Crime
Major Crackdown on Organised Crime Group Dismantled with Eurojust Assistance
In a significant effort to combat cross-border financial crime, authorities in the Republic of Moldova and Romania have successfully dismantled an organised crime group involved in migrant smuggling. The operation, supported by Eurojust, led to the detention of nine suspects and the search of 66 locations across the country.
Key Findings of the Investigation
- The organised crime group had been operating since summer 2021, illegally transferring migrants from Asian countries to Austria and Germany via Romania.
- The group’s complex structure consisted of clusters operating in Turkey, which identified and recruited migrants, transported them to Moldova, and then smuggled them into Romanian territory before reaching their destination.
- Migrants were transported in modified vans with hidden compartments at a price ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 euros per person.
Operation Details
On April 19, nine suspects were detained during an action day. A total of 66 search warrants were executed in Chisinau and the southern part of the country. Eurojust played a crucial role in facilitating cross-border judicial cooperation between national authorities involved and provided funding to support the investigation.
Partners Involved
The operation was carried out by:
- Prosecutor’s Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases in Moldova
- Directorate for the Investigation of Organized Crime and Terrorism - Galati Territorial Service, Romania
- Police Directorate for Combatting Organized Crime, Romania
- Galati Police Brigade of Countering Organized Crime from Romania
Eurojust’s Role in Combating Cross-Border Financial Crime
The investigation highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating cross-border financial crime. Eurojust’s support has enabled law enforcement authorities to effectively coordinate their efforts and bring those responsible to justice.