Raids in forest expansion fund embezzlement case; 4 million lei in damages
The documents refer to certain areas as forested, but in reality, no trees have been planted there. On the morning of Wednesday, February 25, officers from the National Anticorruption Center (CNA), along with prosecutors and with the support of the Moldsilva Agency, are conducting criminal investigations related to the management of funds allocated for the National Forest Expansion and Rehabilitation Program.
The searches are targeting decision-makers at the Iargara Forestry Enterprise in the Leova district.
Field inspections have revealed a lack of afforestation work over approximately 60 hectares, with damages estimated at around four million lei.
According to the National Anticorruption Center (CNA), from November 2024 to the present, the director and the chief accountant allegedly collaborated to implement a scheme to systematically embezzle financial resources intended for afforestation projects.
The suspects are accused of orchestrating fictitious employment for activities related to planting saplings and afforesting land included in the program funded by the Ministry of Environment. Although payments were made from the program's budget, the services were never actually provided.
Additionally, instances have been documented in which the enterprise's assets were used for personal purposes, with the maintenance and repair costs covered by the enterprise.
Following searches conducted at the offices, homes, and vehicles of the targeted individuals, relevant evidence for the criminal case has been seized.
Investigations are ongoing to establish all circumstances and identify all individuals involved in this scheme to embezzle public funds.
