Mihai Ionuț Păunescu, known as hacker ‘Virus’, arrested in Sinaia

Romanian authorities have conducted various law enforcement operations across several counties, focusing on traffic safety, economic crimes, and high-profile arrests.

In Sinaia, police intercepted a vehicle using a rotating mechanism to switch between standard Romanian plates and fake diplomatic plates. The driver was identified as Mihai Ionuț Păunescu, a notorious hacker known as ‘Virus,’ who was previously convicted in the United States for his role in distributing malware that infected millions of computers, including systems at NASA.

Traffic enforcement actions were widespread. In Argeș, Vaslui, and Dolj, police conducted checks targeting speeding, driving under the influence, and improper use of electric scooters and bicycles, resulting in numerous fines and license suspensions. In Botoșani, large-scale raids in sensitive urban areas led to the identification of approximately 200 people and the issuance of over 125,000 lei in fines for various offenses, including smuggling.

Economic inspections in the Rupea area resulted in nearly 110,000 lei in fines for fiscal irregularities, such as the improper use of fiscal marking devices. Additionally, border authorities in the Black Sea intercepted a commercial fishing vessel for illegal trawling in protected coastal waters.

Travelers have been warned of heavy traffic congestion on major routes including the A2 motorway, DN1, and DN39 due to the summer season and recent road accidents.