Moldova life sentences: Corruption probe into prisoner amnesty
A number of prisoners serving life sentences in Moldova were allegedly released due to possible corruption linked to an amnesty marking the 30th anniversary of the country's independence.
The National Anti-corruption Center (NAC) says its officers, alongside prosecutors from the Anti-corruption Prosecutor's Office (AP) and the National Investigation Inspectorate (NII), carried out searches across the country this morning.
"The actions were carried out as part of a criminal case concerning possible active and passive corruption offences committed by individuals involved in the process of implementing and applying the amnesty, as well as the application of provisions under Articles 91 and 92 of the Criminal Code," the NAC statement reads.
The institution noted that several documents and other objects relevant to the investigation were seized following the searches.
"The criminal investigation will continue to establish all the circumstances of the case and gather the necessary evidence," the NAC added.
The releases stem from a 2021 amnesty, granted to mark the 30th anniversary of Moldova’s independence. The measure was intended to reduce sentences or release certain detainees, but it sparked controversy because beneficiaries included individuals convicted of serious crimes, including those serving life terms.
Several life prisoners were released in 2024 and 2025, according to data from the National Administration of Penitentiaries. In total, 24 life prisoners had their sentences reviewed, either through commutation to fixed terms or by being granted conditional release (parole). Notable cases include Alexandr Sinigur, convicted of contract killings and re-detained shortly after his release, and Iurie Radulov, a criminal gang leader who fled the country after his release but was later located.
