National police chief Viorel Cernautanu revealed that over 130,000 Moldovans were bribed by a Russian network to promote pro-Kremlin candidates, raising concerns about malign influence.

Moldova has accused Moscow of interfering in the upcoming referendum on the country’s European Union membership bid, alleging it has poured significant funds to turn people against it and influence the vote.

Speaking to the press on Thursday, National police chief Viorel Cernautanu said more than 130,000 Moldovans had been bribed by a Russian network pushing pro-Kremlin candidates in a bid to derail attempts to grow closer to the EU.

With presidential elections set to be held on 20 October, alongside a referendum on whether the country should pursue its bid for EU membership, the news has raised concerns about corruption.