Searches in criminal case over construction on former Gaudeamus cinema site
Today, December 24, searches are being conducted in a criminal case concerning violations of construction execution rules. This investigation is focused on the construction of a multifunctional complex on the site of the former "Gaudeamus" cinema, located in the center of Chișinău.
The National Anticorruption Center (CNA), in collaboration with the prosecutors from the Chisinau municipality, is conducting investigations targeting a representative of a construction company, along with other individuals responsible for authorizing construction work.
According to the CNA, a criminal case has been initiated regarding violations of construction regulations concerning buildings with five or more floors. Evidence suggests that the company's representatives allegedly obtained necessary permits from the Chisinau City Hall without the required approval from the Ministry of Culture. This includes both the urban planning certificate and the building permit.
The authorization in question pertains to the construction of a multifunctional complex exceeding 15 floors, situated near areas designated for the protection of historical monuments and public spaces. Investigators claim that construction commenced without securing all mandatory approvals, thereby violating legal requirements regarding distances to protected areas.
As a result of these findings, a criminal case has been opened due to reasonable suspicion of violations of construction laws.
Currently, searches are underway at multiple locations in Chisinau, including the construction company's administrative offices, to gather all the details of the case, identify those involved, and ensure they are brought to justice. All related individuals are set to be questioned as suspects.
The land of the former "Gaudeamus" cinema, located at 4 Vasile Alecsandri Str. in Chisinau, was the center of a significant urban-planning scandal in 2025, sparked by allegations of construction law violations and heritage protection breaches.
In February 2025, Chisinau City Hall issued a building permit for a multifunctional complex with 15 to 16 floors, including underground parking, following the demolition of the former cinema in March.
However, the Ministry of Culture contended that the permit was granted without the necessary approvals, noting that the land is situated in the historical core of Chisinau, within the protection zone of several monuments, including the Central Cemetery.
Reported irregularities included exceeding urban planning indices, lacking a demolition authorization, and potentially violating height and density restrictions. This situation drew criticism from both municipal councilors and civil society.
In response, the Ministry of Culture requested the cancellation of the building permit and ordered its temporary suspension.
