Moldova’s corruption perception index dips to 42 in 2025 amid reform fatigue

The Republic of Moldova’s score in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) has decreased by one point, falling from 43 to 42. While the change suggests stagnation rather than a total collapse, Transparency International experts warn that the pace of judicial reform must accelerate.

Moldova expands judicial vetting to anti-corruption judges

The Evaluation Commission has formally launched the external vetting process for judges previously serving on specialized anti-corruption panels. This mandatory integrity screening targets magistrates from the Chișinău Court who handled corruption cases dating back to January 1, 2017.

Venice Commission assesses Moldova’s crackdown on electoral corruption

A high-level fact-finding mission from the Venice Commission is visiting the Republic Moldova on February 4–5. The rapporteurs are conducting a series of strategic consultations to finalize an official opinion on the nation’s stringent anti-corruption legislation.

Moldovan police officers investigated for fraud using ghost identities of foreigners

Anti-corruption officers have launched a criminal investigation into two employees of the National Inspectorate of Public Security (INSP). The officers are suspected of forging official reports and accepting bribes to protect traffic violators.

Chisinau court dismisses Platon’s €44.5 million civil claim in landmark bank fraud trial

​The Chisinau Court, Buiucani seat, has rejected a request by Veaceslav Platon to be recognized as a victim and civil party in the criminal case against Vladimir Plahotniuc. The case involves the infamous "Billion Dollar Bank Fraud" that destabilized Moldova's economy.

Legal experts warn against unjustified consolidation of Moldova’s specialized prosecution services

The proposed creation of the Anti-Corruption and Organized Crime Prosecutor's Office (PACCO) through the merger of Moldova’s specialized units lacks sufficient justification. It risks undermining the fight against high-level corruption, according to a recent analysis by the Legal Resources Centre from Moldova (LRCM).

Prosecutors seek 9-year sentence for former Boldurești Mayor in fatal crash case

Prosecutors have requested a nine-year prison sentence for Nicanor Ciochină, the former Mayor of Boldurești. He is accused of the fatal February 2024 hit-and-run of a 14-year-old boy.

Convicted former Police Chief evades justice as Moldova grapples with Transnistrian escape route

The former head of Moldova’s General Police Inspectorate (IGP), Alexandru Pînzari, remains at large nine days after being sentenced to three years in prison.

Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu vows to end convict escapes to Transnistria

Moldova’s Parliament is moving to close legislative gaps that allow high-profile defendants to flee to the breakaway Transnistrian region or abroad just moments before their sentencing. Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu admitted that poor inter-institutional coordination has facilitated these escapes and promised urgent legal amendments.

Court extends detention for Vladimir Plahotniuc over $43 million embezzlement

A Chisinau court extended the preventive detention of former Democratic Party leader Vladimir Plahotniuc for an additional 30 days on Wednesday. The ruling ensures the high-profile defendant will remain in custody until at least February 22, 2026.

Moldovan judge Ghenadie Tocaiuc remains suspended over drunk driving charges

The Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM) has rejected an appeal by Judge Ghenadie Tocaiuc to resume his duties at the Soroca Court. The magistrate remains suspended as he faces a criminal investigation for driving under the influence (DUI).

Digital extortion: Man gets 12 years for €34,000 blackmail scheme against woman in Italy

A 34-year-old man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after extorting €34,000 (approx. 666,400 MDL) from a woman over a six-year period. The defendant used sexually explicit images to blackmail the victim, even forcing her to purchase a vehicle for him following his release from a previous jail term.