Pro-Russian presidential candidate Georgescu detained in Romania
Photo: Călin Georgescu, Romanian presidential candidate (Getty Images)
Dozens of searches are being conducted in Romania in connection with the case of crimes of public incitement and against the constitutional order. Former presidential candidate Călin Georgescu was also detained, Radio Liberty reports.
The group of Horatiu Potra, who is a close associate of the pro-Russian politician Georgescu, was the target of law enforcement actions.
According to Digi24, Georgescu was also detained and taken for questioning by the prosecutor's office.
According to the prosecutor's office, 47 searches are taking place in the districts of:
- Sibiu
- Mures
- Timis
- Ilfov
- Cluj.
In particular, 27 individuals and four offices were searched.
Radio Liberty adds that Potra is a former leader of Romanian mercenaries who fought in Africa.
In his turn, Georgescu accused the authorities of trying to allegedly justify the theft of elections and prevent his new nomination in the presidential election.
In particular, the searches take place in the same context as investigators are already investigating the financing of the pro-Russian politician's election campaign. The latter declared zero expenses, although the campaign, during which he won the first round, indicates the investment of significant funds.
Elections in Romania
In the November 2024 presidential election, Georgescu won the first round with 23% of support. He is considered a far-right pro-Russian politician. In particular, the President's Office claimed external interference in the election. Eventually, the Constitutional Court annulled the election results and scheduled new elections for May 4, 2025.
