The ruling caps a decade-long legal battle over the so-called theft of the billion. Its outcome could reshape Moldova’s financial reforms and trigger appeals.
The Moldovan oligarch, former leader of the Democratic Party, Vladimir Plahotniuc, was sentenced to 19 years in prison in the case of embezzling 1 billion euros from the country’s banking system.
The decision was handed down by the Chișinău City Court, Buiucani district, on April 22. Sources confirmed the information, releasing details about the verdict.
Plahotniuc was found guilty of being an accomplice in the theft of 1 billion euros from three Moldovan banks – Banca de Economii, Banca Socială and Unibank, the case of which had been uncovered in late November 2014.
According to the investigation, through Ilan Shor’s schemes he received $39 million and €3.5 million from the stolen funds.
The convicted man was not present at the announcement of the verdict. Earlier prosecutors had sought the maximum term of 25 years in prison. In his last word in court on March 25, Plahotniuc denied the existence of an organized crime group and stated that Ilan Shor acted independently.
Appeal Prospects and Case Implications
The decision can be appealed in the Chișinău Court of Appeal.
According to official materials, Plahotniuc has been on an international wanted list since 2019; he was arrested in Greece in July 2025 and extradited to Moldova in September of the same year. The so-called “billion-dollar theft” case remains one of the most high-profile among several criminal proceedings against him.
The investigation emphasizes the importance of banking sector transparency and continuing reforms in Moldova, as such schemes have had a serious impact on the economy and public trust. At the same time, the conclusion of this case could signal stronger oversight of financial institutions and help prevent similar schemes in the future.