Several protesters are reported to have received money to participate in the demonstration held today in front of the Ciocana Court, where the preventive measure in the case of the Gagauzia governor, Evghenia Gutul, was to be examined. Law enforcement officials, who documented the case, warn that such practices are illegal, distort the essence of a public gathering, and reduce the credibility of the civic message, reports IPN.

According to a press release from the General Inspectorate of Police, starting from the current month of June, the demand, acceptance, or receipt of financial means for participating in protests, for oneself or for another person, constitutes an offense and is punishable by a fine of up to 7 500 lei.

“The police respect the citizens’ right to assembly and encourage the free expression of views under the conditions of Law No. 26/2008, but strongly condemn any attempt to distort this right through the provision of financial means or organized manipulation. We will act decisively to prevent and sanction these illegal practices”, assure the law enforcement officials.

The court session regarding the preventive measure for the governor of Gagauzia, Evghenia Gutul, has been postponed to Thursday, at 12:30 P.M.