Police in Moldova detained around 70 people during a protest organised by fugitive oligarch Ilan Shor in Chisinau on August 16, the General Police Inspectorate confirmed. The rally, which took place near the city’s railway station, was deemed unauthorised, and law enforcement officers filed reports for multiple violations. Three vehicles were also detained.
The protest against the pro-EU authorities in Chisinau is expected to be only the first of a series of provocations, which Shor is organising ahead of the September 28 parliamentary elections in Moldova, with the support of the Kremlin. Shor has promised $3,000 per month to those ready to protest in tents on the streets of Chisinau.
Authorities said the demonstration had been announced by Shor with promises of financial incentives for participants. Police stated that the gathering was small but attempted to provoke both law enforcement and passers-by, with protesters at times blocking traffic and consuming alcohol in public.
According to police, the organisers used people dressed as mascot characters to divert attention. A video circulated online showed individuals in cartoon and plush costumes being detained. Officials stressed that events of this type must allow for the proper identification of all participants.
The demonstration featured chants against President Maia Sandu and in support of Gagauzia governor Eugenia Gutsul, who was recently sentenced to seven years in prison, subject to appeal.
Law enforcement reported that demonstrators engaged in disruptive acts, including provoking drivers, simulating traffic accidents, involving minors, and damaging a police vehicle by breaking its window with a stone. Officers also found individuals carrying election materials without documentation of origin and attempting to hide tents in suitcases or taxis.
Police confirmed that 69 people were transported to police stations for administrative procedures, including one participant who was listed as a government debtor. Recorded violations included accepting bribes to attend meetings, traffic offences, hooliganism, smoking and drinking alcohol in public, and disorderly conduct. Officers seized 76 tents, four sleeping bags and an air mattress.
Authorities said seven citizens filed requests for police intervention against the demonstrators’ actions. They added that heightened vigilance was maintained on national roads due to suspected attempts by Shor’s group to organise further provocations.
“In this regard, we apologise to citizens for the inconvenience caused in maintaining public order,” the General Police Inspectorate stated.
