Prosecutors from Romania’s National Anticorruption Directorate (DNA) reportedly detained Vlad Oprea, the mayor of the popular mountain town of Sinaia, for 24 hours on Thursday, January 23. He faces corruption charges in a case investigated by the DNA, with further searches set to take place at the Sinaia City Hall later today, in the presence of the mayor, according to Agerpres.
On Wednesday, investigators conducted searches at the City Hall, the mayor’s residence, the home of an associate, and the office of the local police chief. Oprea was then questioned at the DNA headquarters in Bucharest.
Judicial sources quoted by news agency Agerpres said that Vlad Oprea allegedly demanded and received, indirectly, nearly EUR 240,000 in bribes from representatives of Nordis Best Construct to expedite the necessary documentation for constructing a hotel/aparthotel in Sinaia.
Additionally, between 2021 and 2024, Oprea allegedly managed the company Privacons SRL through intermediaries, conducting financial operations incompatible with his role as mayor, thereby securing illicit benefits.
Judicial sources quoted by the media also claim that from July 2019 to January 2024, Oprea allowed unauthorized public catering services to operate at a restaurant in Sinaia to gain illicit advantages.
He reportedly faces multiple charges, including bribery in continuous form, conducting financial operations incompatible with his position, abuse of office, and money laundering.
DNA had not released an official statement by the time this story was published.
Vlad Oprea is currently serving his sixth term as mayor of Sinaia.
irina.marica@romania-insider.com
(Photo source: Inquam Photos / George Călin)
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