Moldova (bbabo.net), - The Chisinau Court issued an arrest warrant in absentia for former PDM deputy Constantin Botnari and decided to put him on the international wanted list. Meanwhile, Botnari, who is in London, denies the allegations and pleads not guilty, tv8.md reports.

Lawyers for the ex-deputy deny the allegations. According to them, there is no evidence of their client's guilt.

“A number of documents were presented, including the testimony of Mr. Railyan Sergey, his hearing as a defendant. He stated that he was not under the influence of Botnari,” lawyer Iuliana Pascal said.

Lawyers say they asked for the hearing to be rescheduled so that Botnari could stand trial, but that didn't happen.

"He had a plane ticket for a London-Chisinau flight, but he was unable to fly due to the measures to combat COVID-19 introduced in London," Pascal said.

Botnari's defense also said that they are asking for an investigation into Botnari in the UK. In this regard, a petition was filed with the prosecutor's office.

“This morning I filed a petition for the appointment of a commission of inquiry in accordance with the Criminal Code. There is no answer yet. My client is not hiding from the criminal investigation, unlike other public figures. He directly indicated his location, published his phone number and e-mail where he can be contacted, ”said the lawyer.

With regard to the creation of an investigative commission, the prosecutor said that he would study the petition, and later express his opinion.

The court of Chisinau decided to apply a preventive measure - a preliminary detention for a period of 30 days against the ex-deputy of the Democratic Party Constantin Botnari. According to prosecutors, Botnari is involved in obtaining identity cards and foreign passports for people from Plahotniuc's entourage.

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