Vladimir Plahotniuc: The Billion-Dollar Manhunt

Moldovan business tycoon Vladimir Plahotniuc has been detained in Greece under charges linked to a notorious $1 billion fraud case. His legal representative announced on Monday that Plahotniuc is willing to be extradited to Moldova, despite refuting the accusations.

Plahotniuc, considered one of Moldova's wealthiest individuals, once served as a lawmaker and is a key suspect in the 2013 disappearance of $1 billion from the Moldovan banking sector, which amounted to 12% of the country's GDP at that time. He remains firm in asserting his innocence.

The 59-year-old, who fled Moldova in 2019, was apprehended last week at the Athens airport en route to Dubai. He shared intentions to disclose significant information regarding his situation and Moldova through his new social media channels. Plahotniuc has been targeted by an Interpol red notice and requested by Russia for multiple allegations, including involvement in a criminal organization.

(With inputs from agencies.)