Today, August 27, Alexandr Esaulenco, Director of the Security and Intelligence Service, attended, along with other officials, the events dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the proclamation of independence of the Republic of Moldova.

The SIS Director laid flowers at the monument "Ștefan cel Mare și Sfânt", and then joined the country's leadership and the guests of the holiday in the Great National Assembly Square to honor the military, participants in the parade.

In the context of the Independence Day celebration, Alexandr Esaulenco expressed deep gratitude to the heroes of the country who fought for the integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Moldova. On this occasion, the SIS Director congratulated the staff and the SIS veterans, who directly contributed to creation and defence of the statehood of the Republic of Moldova.

"It is the most important holiday for the national identity and unity, and it is the essence of our heritage of values and traditions passed down from generation to generation," said the head of the institution.

Happy birthday, Republic of Moldova!

...

The Security and Intelligence Service of the Republic of Moldova took part in the anti-terrorism exercise "Caspian Antitero – 2021", conducted between August 23 and September 1.

The event brought together special services and relevant authorities from 8 CIS countries. During the joint exercise, the participating countries will test and improve their mechanisms for ensuring the exchange of operational data and intelligence between special services. Moreover, the objectives of the training include identification of persons involved in terrorist acts and efficiency assessment of physical security measures at critical infrastructure objects.

The first phase of the anti-terrorism exercise "Caspian Antitero – 2021" takes place between August 23-26, on the territory of each participating country. Therefore, SIS jointly with the "Fulger" Task Force of the GPI of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and several operators of critical infrastructure objects will carry out a series of operational and tactical measures in order to prevent and/or manage possible terrorist crisis situations. The coordination and evaluation of actions will be ensured by the SIS Antiterrorist Center.

Implementation of such regional measures strengthens regional and interinstitutional cooperation in the fight against terrorism and organized crime. At the same time, it boosts the development and improvement of capacities and mechanisms for interaction between specialized authorities.

The exercise is based on the "Program of cooperation between the CIS member states in the fight against terrorism and other violent manifestations of extremism for 2020-2022".

...

Officers of the Security and Intelligence Service and Customs Service detained in flagrante delicto several members of a criminal group in a case on consumer goods smuggling, investigated together with the Prosecutor's Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases.

The criminal activity of the suspects has been documented during several months and sufficient evidence was gathered in order to charge the individuals for smuggling. As a consequence of special investigative measures and criminal investigation, officers determined the modus operandi of the group members, their travel routes, as well as places for storage and marketing of the smuggled goods.

Consumer goods were purchased from the “Seventh-Kilometer” market from Odessa, introduced into the country through the Transnistrian region and stored in the Security Zone. Consequently, the goods were taken by the other members of the criminal group, responsible for their transportation to the territory controlled by the constitutional authorities of the Republic of Moldova, circumventing internal customs posts.

Three members of the group were detained in flagrante delicto on August 16, 2021, following an ambush set up in the Căușeni District. As soon as they were detained, employees of the involved institutions conducted 10 searches at multiple addresses in the area. Therefore, consumer goods worth 900 thousand lei and three vehicles used for their transportation were seized.

Investigation on this case is still under way in order to establish the entire criminal area and to identify all the persons involved. If the guilt of the detained individuals is proven in court, they risk a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

...

On the night of July 26-27, in one of the localities of Cahul district, the Security and Intelligence Service jointly with the Prosecutor’s Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases uncovered the activity of a criminal group specialized in cigarette smuggling. Officers detained a minibus with 179 boxes of Ashima cigarettes without excise stamp.

Moreover, two inflatable boats, engines for them, and fast inflation pumps were found in the cargo compartment of the minibus, confirming the intention of smuggling. The goods were to be transported illegally to Romania, circumventing customs posts.

According to operative information, this type of cigarettes was bought in Transnistrian region at a price of about 360 euros for a box, while in Romania it can be sold for 800 euros.

During the operation, 6 people directly involved in the transportation of smuggled goods were identified and detained. According to the criminal law, smuggling of excise goods is punished with imprisonment from 4 to 10 years.

...

The Security and Intelligence Service warns about the risks associated with possible corruption of voters and organized transportation of voters to the polls.

At the previous election, the CEC adopted the Decision no. 4390 of 20.10.2020 on some aspects related to organized transportation of voters to the polling stations on the day of the presidential elections of 01.11.2020. According to this Decision, the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) via the General Police Inspectorate, and the Ministry of Economy and Infrastructure (MEI) via the National Auto Transport Agency (ANTA) were appointed responsible for passenger traffic on election day.

During the preparation for the current elections, there was no joint action plan of ANTA and INSP (National Public Security Inspectorate), similar to the one from the previous elections. Therefore, a situation of uncertainty was created regarding the procedures and actions for 11.07.2021.

The SIS informed CEC, MIA, MEI and ANTA about the need for such regulations, based on previous precedents in previous polls, supported by current indicators on possible voter corruption and the organized transportation of voters to the polling stations.

Besides the fact that organized transportation of voters is a passive manifestation of corruption and compromises the voting process, it also creates premises for other illicit activities, such as breaches of the passenger transport regulations, traffic safety, illicit economic activity.

The SIS, in strict accordance with the delegated legal provisions, will carry out on the election day a set of measures of competence, focused on ensuring the constitutional rights of citizens both within the country and abroad. At the same time, the institution will have the full potential to prevent and document any attempts to directly and indirectly corrupt the voters.

We regret to note, in this regard, the intentions of some groups of people from both the right and left banks of the Nistru river to prepare and carry out illegal activities, such as transporting and persuading certain voters to vote for a certain electoral contestant in exchange for certain benefits.

The Service will act in accordance with the legislation in force and the gathered evidence will be transmitted to the Prosecutor's Office.

We encourage you to exercise your right to vote safely and in compliance with the national law!

...

The graduation ceremony of the 20th class of intelligence officers was marked today, July 9, at the National Institute of Intelligence and Security “Bogdan, Întemeietorul Moldovei” (NIIS) of the SIS. The festivity took place in the presence of the SIS leadership and professors.

Serghei Dulghieri, the head of the Director’s Office, congratulated the young officers for the results achieved during the academic year and for becoming part of a system that represents one of the most important pillars of national security in the Republic of Moldova. He wished them much success in their work, noting that the institution has high hopes for the new generation. Mr. Dulghieri said he was convinced that the accomplishment of the missions lies in the contribution of each employee, while the peace and security of the citizen, society and the state is guaranteed by the altruism, effort and responsibility of intelligence officers.

The SIS leaders expressed gratitude to the teaching staff for their prodigious work, vocation and dedication to teaching young intelligence specialists. Likewise, the SIS leaders thanked parents and family members of the graduates for their support and understanding offered in the process of pursuing the career of intelligence officer.

Vitalie Sîli, rector of the NIIS, wished the graduates to put into practice the gained knowledge and to continue to develop their skills, in order to achieve professional performances. Also, he urged them to contribute at the highest standards to national security missions.

At the end of the festivity, the intelligence officers received graduation certificates. They will be assigned to the SIS departments according to their specialized training, where young officers will benefit from the support of the experienced colleagues.

...

On Wednesday, July 7, 2021, the SIS jointly with the PCCOCS conducted simultaneously searches at the home and workplace of one of the persons named in the case, who organized the criminal activity against the judge.

According to the operative information, the 45-year-old man, detained for 72 hours, held a high-ranking position in the investigated criminal group.

At the moment, searches are underway, while mobile phones, other electronic media and documents have already been seized.

...

This morning, the Security and Intelligence Service jointly with the Prosecutor's Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases conducted searches in the homes, offices and cars of several people.

The procedural actions concern the activity of the employees of the former Department No. 5 within the National Investigation Inspectorate of the General Police Inspectorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA). Their actions are investigated in terms of five criminal offences: "abuse of office", "theft of state property", "illegal crossing of the state border", “disclosure of state secrets” and “forgery of public documents”.

As a result of the criminal investigation, a few minutes ago, 3 persons were detained: the head of the Police Inspectorate of Bălți municipality, an inspector from the Border Police and the president of the FEA Association.

The criminal proceedings on this case are ongoing.

Note:

Any person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a definitive and irrevocable court judgement.

...

The Security and Intelligence Service (SIS) signed today, July 5, a collaboration agreement with the Moldova State University (USM).

The conclusion of the agreement comes in the context of launching the Master’s Degree Programme “National Security Studies”, initiated by the National Institute of Intelligence and Security „Bogdan, Întemeietorul Moldovei” of the SIS and Moldova State University, Faculty of International Relations, Political and Administrative Sciences.

The two higher education institutions have joined their forces to train a young generation – competent in security risk management and understanding the role of the state in the process of ensuring national security.

The master's programme is open to bachelor's degree graduates, who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in the field of national security, as well as to young professionals, working in institutions with responsibilities in security, public order, defence, central and local public administration.

The purpose of the master's programme “National Security Studies” is to develop skills and abilities in managing and analysing national security and political issues.

Graduates are prospective employees of state institutions with responsibilities in national security (Security and Intelligence Service, General Inspectorate of the Border Police, Customs Service, State Protection and Guard Service, Ministry of Internal Affairs, central and local public administration bodies), private and non-governmental sectors, as well as representatives of national and international projects. The developed competencies will help graduates to work as a security expert, political scientist, political analyst, research trainee in political and security sciences, consultant, civil servant, military, representative of NGOs or political/ social entities, researcher, advisor, coordinator of programmes etc.

The launch of the master's programme “National Security Studies” is dedicated to the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the creation of state security bodies of the Republic of Moldova. Therefore, one of the basic guidelines of the institution is openness to society and promotion of security culture.

...

The National Institute of Intelligence and Security „Bogdan, Întemeietorul Moldovei” of the SIS jointly with Moldova State University launches, for the first time, the master's degree programme “National Security Studies”. It is open to bachelor's degree graduates and young professionals from law enforcement bodies, who want to improve their knowledge or to build a career in the security field.

The purpose of the master's degree course is to train qualified staff, able to properly identify and assess the impact of risks, threats and vulnerabilities to state security, as well as to contribute to the efficiency of the national security system. At the same time, one of the main objectives of the programme is to create a research core that will stimulate scientific activity and will develop the mechanism for promoting the security culture in society.

The master's programme “National Security Studies” is a professional one, with 120 credits. Its curriculum contains such subjects as: Management of the National Security System; National Security of the Republic of Moldova; Geopolitical and Geostrategic Dimension of Security; Intelligence and Security Authorities in Contemporary Society; National Security Assessment, etc.

At the end of the course of study, graduates will have a wide range of employment options, either in public or private institutions with responsibilities in the field of security. Beneficiaries will have the opportunity to work as a security expert, political scientist, political and security analyst, research trainee in political and security sciences, consultant, civil servant, military, member of political and social entities, researcher, advisor, coordinator of programmes etc.

Those interested in applying for the master's degree programme “National Security Studies” can submit their application files online between July 19 – 30, 2021.

Find out more details at:

https://inis.sis.md/ro/masterat

https://admitere.usm.md

...

In the context of the public statements made today regarding the alleged information about certain political parties and candidates registered in the parliamentary elections, the Security and Intelligence Service states the following:

The SIS disapproves and denies this information and reaffirms its position of full compliance with existing legislation and prioritisation of fundamental human rights and freedoms.

At the same time, as an institution with responsibilities in the field of national security, the SIS focuses on events with potential to generate security risks, while the analytical product is sent to legal beneficiaries to make decisions accordingly.

Despite any insinuations, we mention that the SIS does not monitor political parties, but the correctness of their actions in order to identify and exclude any external interference and influence on democratic processes in the Republic of Moldova.

Moreover, the SIS actions are not based on orders, but on the legislative framework that regulates the activity of the special service.

The institution has repeatedly made statements reaffirming its determination to maintain its equidistant approach and neutrality in daily activities, and will stay focused on carrying out missions to ensure the national security of the Republic of Moldova.

The Security and Intelligence Service reiterates its call not to be drawn into the area of political disputes and maintains its position of not commenting on the statements of political actors, especially in the midst of the election campaign.

...

The SIS denies categorically the statements made during the press briefing held by Adrian Lebedinschi and Grigore Novac - Members of the Parliament (MP), parliamentary faction of the Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova (PSRM).

We mention that all the information available at the institutional level was forwarded to national law enforcement bodies, as well as to the members of the Committee of Inquiry into the alleged kidnapping of the Ukrainian ex-judge, Nicolae Chaus.

At the same time, during the investigation of the case, the SIS representatives, including the Director of the institution, showed their willingness and openness to cooperation, and provided support, according to their competencies, in order to identify all the involved individuals and clarify the causes of the incident.

The institution has repeatedly made public statements in which it reiterated its position and denied any involvement in illicit activities related to the alleged kidnapping of the Ukrainian citizen.

We regret that political actors are increasingly using the SIS in their rhetoric and are trying to manipulate public opinion via insinuations and interpretation, in order to promote their image in the election campaign.

The Security and Intelligence Service suggests and urges the MPs of the PSRM parliamentary faction, to address the General Prosecutor's Office with the evidence they claim to have, to initiate a criminal investigation into the facts they refer to, which will prove either the veracity of their allegations or the declarative and political nature of today's press event.

...

The Security and Intelligence Service jointly with the Prosecutor’s Office of Ciocana District and Internal Protection and Anti-Corruption Service detained 6 members of a criminal group specialized in weapons trafficking.

Therefore, during special investigative measures, authorities established that a citizen of the Republic of Moldova purchased from a police officer a special device for unlocking car doors and starting car engine, in order to steal and sell luxury cars both in the country and abroad. The employee of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, who held a managerial position, was detained in flagrante delicto, when he was selling the device for about EUR 18000.

During criminal procedure measures, law enforcement officers conducted a controlled buy of several firearms, which proved to be fully functional. Also, the efficiency of the device was confirmed as 4 luxury cars, produced in 2017, were opened and started.

During the searches, goods with potential probative value were identified and seized, as well as special devices for opening and starting cars.

The 6 detained persons are suspected of committing the crime provided for in art. 186(5) of the Criminal Code - “Theft” and art. 290 - “Illegal carrying, storing, purchasing, producing, repairing, or marketing weapons and ammunition and their theft”.

If found guilty, they will face from 2 to 7 years of imprisonment.

Video sequences

...

The Security and Intelligence Service (SIS) jointly with the Prosecutor's Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases (PCCOCS) conduct an investigation on “bank fraud” case, regarding the release of over 5 million euros from the bank guarantee account in 2015, within the special administration of Unibank.

For this purpose, on Tuesday, officers carried out searches at the home and office of an employee of the National Bank of Moldova, who in 2015 was appointed special administrator of Unibank. As a result of the searches, the authorities seized mobile phones, electronic media, and documents.

The suspect was detained for 72 hours for a reasonable suspicion of committing abuse of office for the benefit of a criminal group. Criminal investigation is pursued with his help.

According to the law, the person risks imprisonment from 3 to 7 years with forfeiture of the right to exercise certain official duties or to engage in particular activity for a period of 10 years to 15 years.

Any person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a definitive and irrevocable court judgement.

...

As result of multiple media requests to comment on information spread in press regarding the alleged dissension between the Security and Intelligence Service and the General Prosecutor’s Office about recent detentions in the case on alleged surveillance of a judge, we state the following:

The SIS denies categorically unfounded speculations and points out that criminal investigation carried out by prosecutors and intelligence officers is based on legal grounds, in accordance with criminal procedure law and sufficient evidence to state the need for such measures.

In line with functional competences, prosecutors conduct criminal investigation, while the SIS provides support. This fact guarantees a cooperation in strict accordance with the criminal procedure law.

Moreover, any significant comments on the case, at this point, could affect the confidentiality of criminal investigations. Therefore, the institution urges media representatives to refrain from speculations based on unverified sources.

Security and Intelligence Service

General Prosecutor’s Office

...

The Security and Intelligence Service jointly with the Prosecutor's Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases (PCCOCS) documented the activity of an organised criminal group, created to facilitate passing of driving exams.

Intelligence officers and prosecutors established that members of the criminal group provided candidates with special equipment to ensure remote transmission of correct answers, in order to illegally facilitate passing of driving exams. Members of the group claimed that they have influence over officials from the Public Services Agency (PSA) to make them ignore all the breaches committed during the exams.

According to findings, PCCOCS initiated a criminal case on the basis of indications of an offence under article 326, para. (3), let. b) of the Criminal Code. Following a series of special investigation measures, officers found that several persons deliberately set up a criminal group of 8 citizens who have been already identified and other suspects – in the process of identification. They facilitated passing of driving exams at the PSA on the entire territory of the Republic of Moldova. For the provided services, members of the group required an illegal fee ranging between € 500 – 1000.

Note: Internal security departments of the SIS and PSA detained in flagrante delicto several Moldovan citizens. Officers found in their possession special equipment and seized it.

The Security and Intelligence Service will pursue its activity aimed to detect, prevent and counter threats to national security, including the anti-corruption level. If you have knowledge of acts of corruption, please report them to the SIS hotline - /373 22/ 24-51-21.

Video sequences

...

The Security and Intelligence Service seeks to introduce clarity on reports in the press about the Ukrainian ex-judge, Nicolae Chaus.

The SIS mentions that the so-called document issued by the institution, that is referred to in the media, is fake. Therefore, the SIS will officially inform members of the Parliamentary Committee of Inquiry into the alleged kidnapping of the Ukrainian ex-judge, Nicolae Chaus.

The Security and Intelligence Service reiterates its position and denies any involvement in illegal activities related to the alleged kidnapping of the Ukrainian citizen. At the same time, the investigation is still under way and the SIS provides ongoing support to law enforcement authorities in order to clarify all the circumstances and identify the persons involved.

The SIS urges everyone to verify the authenticity of any document or information related to the institution by contacting it. In that manner, spreading of misinformation and fake news, potentially dangerous for the national security of the Republic of Moldova, can be avoided.

...

The Security and Intelligence Service jointly with the Head Office of the Prosecutor’s Office of Chişinău thwarted the activity of a hacker, specialised in cybercrime for profit.

The 29-year-old man, using the brute-force method, attempted to get illegal access to the government information system of the Information Technology and Cyber Security Service.

During the criminal investigation, officers searched locations where the hacker had carried out his activities and seized servers, storage boxes, secondary equipment (a generator, 12 professional UPSes, a stabilizer) and 3 desktop computers used to manage the criminal activity.

Since the young man was imposed no measure involving deprivation of liberty, he fled the Republic of Moldova from the Eastern districts, crossing the territory that is not controlled by the constitutional authorities. Currently, he is announced an internationally wanted fugitive in order to find out his exact location and to extradite him to the Republic of Moldova.

The law stipulates a jail term of 3 to 7 years for this crime.

SIS officers and prosecutors continue to carry out the criminal investigation in order to elucidate all the circumstances and identify persons involved in this case.

...

High-level representatives of the Security and Intelligence Service (SIS), the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) and the EUBAM mission held a trilateral meeting on June 11, 2021. The main goal of the meeting was to broaden cooperation between security services of both countries, enhance intelligence exchange and step up capacities to fight cross-border crime at the Moldova-Ukraine border.

In the course of the meeting, representatives of the two security services discussed cooperation in the light of new threats and shifting modi operandi of organized cross-border crime. The parties exchanged intelligence on criminal activities alongside Moldova-Ukraine border and shared best practices on combating it. Ukrainian and Moldovan high-level security officials reviewed measures for counteracting illicit firearms trafficking, as well as smuggling of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol. At the same time, the issue of human trafficking was scrutinized by the participants who highlighted vulnerable areas and possible mitigating measures, as well as prospects for future joint activities.

Representatives of the Security and Intelligence Service of the Republic of Moldova stressed the significance of trilateral cooperation within the EUBAM platform. “Interaction in this format gives a unique opportunity to debate on concrete issues and identify solutions that help to counter smuggling of narcotic and radioactive substances, alcohol and tobacco products at the Moldova-Ukraine border. Despite COVID-19 international restrictive measures, achieving constant interaction and exchange of intelligence on existing risks and threats in the border area significantly contributes to ensuring security at the national and regional levels”, the Head of the Moldovan Delegation stated. In this regard, he also expressed appreciation for the outcomes of the EUBAM mission in maintaining good partnership and cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine.

On their side, the Security Service of Ukraine welcomed EUBAM’s initiative on bringing together representatives of Ukrainian and Moldovan security services, underlining the importance of enhancing cooperation with their colleagues from the Republic of Moldova. In this context, the Head of the Ukrainian Delegation mentioned: „Today, we have agreed to strengthen cooperation on intelligence exchange and risk analysis at the Moldova-Ukraine border. At the end of the day, it is the cooperation of our two special services that will make it possible to better combat cross-border crime, illicit trafficking in firearms, explosives, tobacco products, etc.”

Concluding the meeting, General Slawomir Pichor, the Head of EUBAM stated: “To date, the Mission together with security services of the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine have enjoyed effective cooperation. Today, we were able to step it up even further. Thanks to this meeting, we mapped out priorities and established good foundations for enhancing cooperation. I trust that this trilateral meeting will boost intelligence exchange and improve responses to the challenges both services are facing at the Moldova-Ukraine border. At the same time, I would like to reiterate EUBAM’s readiness to provide strategic, analytical, and operational support.”

The Security and Intelligence Service promotes cooperation with strategic partners to combat emerging risks and exchange intelligence aimed at maintaining regional and global security.

...

The Security and Intelligence Service warns about risks to national security in connection to future parliamentary elections.

Based on the analysis of security risks and vulnerabilities, SIS notes the emergence of first signs of threat to the proper conduct of the early parliamentary elections set for July 11, 2021. The warning signs are generated by the Decision no. 4965 of the Central Electoral Commission (CEC), namely setting up polling stations for the voters on the left bank of Nistru river, Bender municipality.

The risks result from the decision to set up three polling stations, namely: one in Corjova village from Dubăsari district, and the other two in Bender municipality – which is an area with enhanced security regime, out of the control of the constitutional authorities of the Republic of Moldova and without the possibility to intervene in case of potential incidents. Also, it would be impossible to ensure the unbiased activity of the polling station teams – free from influence of the illegal paramilitary groups from Tiraspol, as well as the attendance and safety of national and international observers etc. In this regard, the mentioned situations create circumstances for electoral fraud at these polling stations.

Unfortunately the CEC did not consult with the SIS on the above-mentioned decision, in terms of risks and threats from the Tiraspol regime, which constantly opposed and banned any type of national elections on the controlled territory.

The opinion of the SIS is based not only on information available at the institutional level but also on incidents recorded in previous years. For example, the so-called secessionist administration always opposed opening of polling stations on territory of the Transnistrian region, referring to the so-called exclusive right of the Tiraspol “central electoral commission” to organize elections. Therefore, the access to Bender municipality was restricted, and often prohibited, for the polling station team of Varnița that was visiting prisons No. 8 and 12 with a mobile ballot box. Sometimes the access was granted only after the intervention of the OSCE.

During 2019 parliamentary elections, the Transnistrian paramilitary groups seized computers and other goods for the polling station of Hagimus village, Căușeni district.

In reference to Corjova commune from Dubăsari district, we mention that the so-called administration from Tiraspol regards it as part of the Dubăsari city. Therefore, it categorically rejects any electoral activities organised by the constitutional authorities on that territory. Every election until 2011, the so-called militia and groups of “Transnistria Defenders” blocked the access to the polling station, in some cases it was even vandalised on the election day. Subsequently, the authorities decided to move the polling station from Corjova to Cocieri village, in order to prevent further destabilization.

...

The Security and Intelligence Service and “Air Moldova” airline carry on activities for developing and strengthening the partnership in the field of terrorism prevention and counteraction. Therefore, officers of the SIS Anti-Terrorism Centre and “ALFA” Special Task Force organized several training exercises with the aircrew.

The theoretical and practical training included psychological instruction of the crew members, as well as recommendations and strategies for management of crisis situations on the plane. Officers demonstrated to the participants of the course first aid procedures and assessment methods of victim’s condition.

Moreover, participants learned self-defence techniques during simulations of various crisis situations, in order to develop reaction skills for different circumstances. Practical training included unlawful interference on board of an aircraft in flight and counter-terrorist hostage-rescue from a hijacked aircraft, with eventual evacuation of passengers.

One of the priorities of the Security and Intelligence Service in prevention of terrorism and other violent forms of radical extremism is to develop the dialogue with society, as well as organising and ensuring the antiterrorist security training process in public and private sectors.

...

The Security and Intelligence Service of the Republic of Moldova continues the series of activities on the national platform for dialogue with the young generation.

Today, May 20, professors of the National Institute of Intelligence and Security “Bogdan, Întemeietorul Moldovei” and representatives of the Anti-Terrorism Centre explained students the role of the secret service in ensuring human, societal and state security.

Also, guests had the opportunity to get informed about the offers of this higher education institution and find out the requirements for potential SIS employees. Young people visited places where intelligence officers are trained and learned new things about the meanings and peculiarities of this noble profession.

The project, that targets young generation, aims to stimulate cooperation between universities and the Security and Intelligence Service – via the National Institute of Intelligence and Security “Bogdan, Întemeietorul Moldovei”. However, the main objectives are: to involve young people as much as possible, to develop the spirit of patriotism, to promote security culture and to acknowledge the important role of the society in ensuring national security.

...

Today, Director of the Security and Intelligence Service took part in activities dedicated to the 76th anniversary of the victory over fascism.

Alexandr ESAULENCO, together with other officials, laid flowers at the Memorial Complex “Eternitate” and held a moment of silence in memory of the victims of the biggest conflagration in human history.

Commemorative events in honour of heroes of the war against fascism is the right moment to promote world peace and reaffirm the mission of the Security and Intelligence Service to secure independence, sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity, and statehood of the Republic of Moldova.

...

On 30 April 2021, the Security and Intelligence Service carried out teaching activities within the course “Actual Problems of National Security”, organized by the Military Academy of the Armed Forces "Alexandru cel Bun".

Intelligence officers held lectures on topical issues of national security to participants of the postgraduate course in security and defence – representatives of state institutions, civil society and different religious confessions.

Participants had the possibility to learn information about SIS evolution and its role in the national security system. Also, SIS officers made a presentation on National Institute of Intelligence and Security “Bogdan, Întemeietorul Moldovei” – the only educational institution in the country that trains specialists in intelligence, counterintelligence, and special investigative activity for the needs of SIS and other institutions with responsibilities in this field.

The lectures covered topics concerning competences of the SIS in protection of the state secret, classification of information related to national security with respect to primacy of the public interest, right to freedom of expression and right to information. Moreover, a representative of the SIS Anti-Terrorism Centre talked about responsibilities in preventing and countering terrorism, since this negative phenomenon is growing.

Also, the event included an interactive component, when SIS officers answered questions of the participants and encouraged their involvement in promotion of security culture.

...

The investigations on criminal case involving the diplomatic vehicle of the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova in Moscow proceeds. Thus, officers of the Security and Intelligence Service and Customs Service, under the direct coordination of the Prosecutor's Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases, detained four people suspected for manufacturing and delivering anabolic steroids, on the evening of 27 April 2021.

The detained people are two men and two women, aged between 34 and 55. They were responsible for manufacturing and delivering anabolic steroids into different states of the European Union but also into the Russian Federation. One of them was directly involved in the attempted smuggling of anabolic steroids by use of diplomatic vehicle, on 5 December 2020, at the Palanca customs post.

Last night detentions followed special investigative measures, criminal prosecution actions, and searches conducted in homes and vehicles of the suspects and members of their inner circles. During the measures, officers found and seized anabolic steroids, similar to those from the diplomatic vehicle. The searches continue today, in the real estates of other involved people.

Moreover, Skoda Superb and Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles that the four suspects used for smuggling were seized, with a view to a possible confiscation.

The four people are suspected of preparation and participation in smuggling. According to criminal law, it is punished by a fine amounting up to 325.000 lei or imprisonment from 3 to 8 years, while entities are punishable by a fine amounting up to 550.000 lei and prohibition to engage in certain activities.

...

According to the Decision no.1 of 01.04.2021 of the Commission for Emergency Situations of the Republic of Moldova, SIS requests to block the websites todayactual.site and bn-news-romania-365.xyz, which were identified as online sources spreading fake news about the COVID-19 evolution, as well as prevention and protection measures.

The mentioned sources posted fake news on “decisions” adopted by the authorities of some European countries, with the following headlines:

- todayactual.site – “It’s official! Romanians who oppose vaccination are deported from Germany, France, Italy, Hungary, Switzerland”. The content of the article does not match the headline (the headline manipulates readers’ curiosity to maximize the number of pageviews).

- bn-news-romania-365.xyz – “No masks from 1st of May – Klaus Iohannis not wearing protective masks is allowed everywhere…”. The content of this fake article was partially taken from a piece of news from August 2020, entitled “Coronavirus: Mandatory Mask-Wearing Outdoors”, while the text was partially adapted.

At the same time, the mentioned websites shared other fake news that are not related to COVID-19 topic.

Note: The Security and Intelligence Service launched a public campaign to encourage people to report fake news on COVID-19 evolution, as well as prevention and protection measures. Fake news can be reported by filling in a special form that will be examined by the institution.

...

According to the Decision no.1 of 01.04.2021 of the Commission for Emergency Situations of the Republic of Moldova, SIS requests to block the website ro.portal-news-24h.xyz, which was identified as an online source that spreads fake news about the COVID-19 evolution, as well as prevention and protection measures.

The source published fake news about the “decisions” adopted by the authorities of the Republic of Moldova whereby “Moldova gave up mandatory mask-wearing starting April 15” and “restaurants and shops open at 100% capacity”. In fact, authorities of the Republic of Moldova have not adopted such decisions yet. The content of the article was taken from news, dating back to March 2021, regarding the announcement of the Texas authorities. The text was partially adapted.

At the same time, the mentioned website shared other fake news that are not related to COVID-19 topic.

In this context, SIS reiterates the importance of being informed and/or comparing news to official sources. In order to get accurate information on national anti-epidemic measures, visit the official website of the Government.

An analysis of the fake-news network (ro.portal-news-24h.xyz – one of its component) indicated that the Facebook account “Dumitru Julavschi" in one of the main elements involved in spreading fake news on these sources.

Moreover, popular Facebook groups are used to promote “fake news” by means of multiple fake accounts.

...

According to the Decision no.1 of 01.04.2021 of the Commission for Emergency Situations of the Republic of Moldova, SIS requests to block the website jurnalstiri.site, which was identified as an online source that spreads fake news about the COVID-19 evolution, as well as prevention and protection measures.

On 03.04.2021, the mentioned source published fake news regarding the “decisions adopted” by the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova in the context of the epidemiological situation with the headline: “THE LATEST DECISION OF THE PARLIAMENT: ALL THE RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED EARLIER ARE LIFTED”. The published and shared "article" is fake news.

The Parliament of the Republic of Moldova did not adopt such a decision. Moreover, according to the Decision no.1 of 01.04.2021 of the Commission for Emergency Situations of the Republic of Moldova, the Commission ordered to implement provisions of the Decision no.41, 44, 51 and 53 of the National Extraordinary Public Health Commission to the extent that does not conflict with the Decision no.1 of 01.04.2021.

At the same time, directions, measures, recommendations, and specific guidelines for conduct of activity during the pandemic, approved by the Decisions no. 11-13, 14, 16-16, 21, 23, 26, 29, 31 of National Extraordinary Public Health Commission (with subsequent amendments) are still applied, to the extent that does not conflict with the Decision no.1 of 01.04.2021.

To get accurate information about national anti-epidemic measures, visit the official website of the Government of the Republic of Moldova: https://gov.md/ro/content/informatii-privind-coronavirus.

SIS reiterates the importance of evaluating sources and people/ accounts that share news before making the decision of liking or sharing it:

- Get informed and evaluate news in terms of comparing them with official sources (state institutions and international organisations involved in management of the pandemic). At the same time, if the article contains remarks of the officials or press-releases of organisations or national/international institutions compare the content of the message reflected in the article with the original one (visit the official websites or official accounts on social networks).

- Avoid sharing news based only on headlines, without evaluating their contents (one of the techniques used by anonymous sources for spreading fake news is to create “sensational” headlines that awaken the curiosity of readers. Thus, some anonymous sources spreading fake news make people share news via social networks. Usually, they aim to get financial dividends (generated by number of visitors on the website) or to create panic with malicious intent.

- Evaluate the source you get informed from (pay attention to the author of the article, web address, and other articles published on that site).

- Evaluate the content of the news (ethical standards, spelling and grammar errors, authenticity of photo/ video/ audio content).

- Check the date of publication (manipulative news or news that reflect past events that are currently irrelevant and can create panic).

- If you find articles shared via social networks, evaluate the source that shares them (some fake news are shared on social networks by use of fake accounts).

- If you find news about “efficient methods” of self-treatment or efficiency of taking certain substances, vitamins, medicines to prevent or treat COVID-19, consult your family physician and official statements of the Ministry of Health and WHO.

If you find fake news about COVID-19 evolution, protection and prevention measures, and fake accounts on social networks used to actively spread misinformation, we encourage you to forward that information to the Security and Intelligence Service (press@sis.md) and to report articles and administrator accounts that share them on social networks.

We rely on your responsible attitude, therefore strengthening efforts in this regard is crucial.

...

In the context of the statements made in public space on involvement and/or prior information of the Security and Intelligence Service about a possible kidnapping of the Ukrainian citizen, Nicolae CEAUS, on the territory of the Republic of Moldova, the institution vehemently denies and firmly rejects these insinuations and interpretations.

We reiterate that SIS performs its duties in strict accordance with the legislation in force, with respect for human rights, including those of foreign citizens on the national territory. Therefore, we condemn any attempts to denigrate the institution and disapprove the allegations concerning involvement of the SIS in activities that go beyond the law.

SIS monitors the information related to the incident and cooperates with law enforcement bodies to elucidate all the circumstances. Also, the institution provides support, according to its competences, for legal assessment of the alleged facts.

In the same line, the Security and Intelligence Service encourages mass-media representatives to get first-hand information regarding the activity of the institution and to reflect the position of SIS in materials which concern it, granting the right of reply.

...

Today, March 17, 2021, the National Institute of Intelligence and Security “Bogdan, the Founder of Moldova” of the Security and Intelligence Service concluded a partnership contract with Moldova State University and Cahul State University “Bogdan Petriceicu Hașdeu” within the Academic Consortium “Doctoral School in Social and Educational Sciences”.

The need to establish such cooperation between the links of higher education system of the Republic of Moldova consists in training young specialists that can build a successful career using vast knowledge and skills. Therefore, developing the sense of initiative, capacity for self-improvement, and independence of opinion and action becomes a priority.

The Consortium is focused on meeting the educational needs of society, developing human potential, ensuring sustainable growth of the economy and the well-being of citizens. In order to achieve the objectives, educational institutions will make joint efforts to secure an effective connection in the processes of training and scientific research.

The partnership aims to generate new ideas and outcomes in the fields of research, development and innovation. The coordinated activity of all members will stimulate the scientific process by concentrating and using the available intellectual and material resources.

17.03.2021

...