On Thursday, Moldovan authorities conducted a series of high-profile raids targeting leaders of a group associated with fugitive businessman Ilan Shor, as part of a larger criminal investigation into election interference.

The searches come in the lead-up to Moldova’s critical presidential election on October 20th, which will coincide with a referendum on whether to enshrine European Union membership as a strategic objective in the country’s constitution.

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The Moldovan police have accused Ilan Shor and Russia of attempting to interfere with the electoral process, specifically targeting the referendum. Shor, a pro-Russian businessman currently living in exile, was convicted last year for his involvement in a massive financial scandal that saw the theft of $1 billion from Moldovan banks. Despite being convicted in absentia, Shor continues to exert influence over Moldovan politics, largely through his social media presence and connections within Moldova.

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It is within this context that Shor and his associates are accused of trying to disrupt the democratic process. According to Moldovan police, their investigation has revealed a coordinated effort aimed at undermining the referendum through bribery, vote-buying schemes, and financial manipulations. These tactics are reportedly designed to sway public opinion against EU membership and prevent Moldova from solidifying ties with the West.

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Moldova’s upcoming presidential election and EU membership referendum have become focal points for external interference, particularly from actors linked to Russia and Ilan Shor.