Searches in the north and center revealed a group's attempt to mobilize youth for violence
A group of individuals is suspected of attempting to draw young people from the Republic of Moldova into protest activities intended to escalate into violence and mass unrest. Fake social media accounts—some allegedly managed from abroad—were reportedly used to mobilize participants. Police officers and agents from the Intelligence and Security Service (SIS) have carried out searches in several regions of the country.
Law enforcement says the group’s activities allegedly began in October 2026. Investigators suspect those involved sought, among other things, financial gain.
“According to preliminary data, starting in October 2026, members of the group allegedly acted in a coordinated manner, aiming to secure financial gains and organize violent acts—including the intentional destruction or damage of public and private property,” stated a police press release issued on October 24.
To attract participants, the suspects allegedly created fake profiles on TikTok and Facebook, as well as Telegram channels—including one named “ProtestMD.” The messages were reportedly targeted primarily at students in vocational schools and universities.
On October 23, 2026, officers from the National Investigation Inspectorate (INI) and the Intelligence and Security Service (SIS), working alongside prosecutors from the PCCOCS (Prosecution Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases) and supported by the “Fulger” Special Police Brigade, conducted a series of simultaneous searches in Chișinău, as well as in the central and northern regions of the Republic of Moldova.
Following these raids, investigators claim to have uncovered evidence of attempts to manipulate young people, coercing them into participating in illegal activities without them fully grasping the consequences.
The suspects are currently cooperating with law enforcement, and investigators are continuing to establish the circumstances and identify everyone involved. Authorities have not specified how many individuals are under investigation or whether any arrests have been made. Police are warning citizens to be cautious about calls to action shared by unknown individuals on social media.
"Participating in acts that incite violence or the destruction of property carries legal consequences, including criminal liability," law enforcement officials warn.
Citizens are also urged to verify information before sharing it and to disregard messages that encourage violence or other illegal activities.
