Ciprian Ciucu faces DNA corruption probe as journalists Denise Rifai and Odeta Nestor are audited

Romanian anti‑corruption prosecutors (DNA) are investigating Sector 6 mayor Ciprian Ciucu on accusations of taking bribes from developers in exchange for urban‑planning permits. The inquiry has led to computer searches, the seizure of documents from the sector’s city hall and a series of hearings.

Journalist Denise Rifai appeared at DNA and was placed under judicial control, while TV presenter Odeta Nestor, a close associate of Rifai, was heard a second time after her earlier arrest with €100,000 in cash. Both have been charged with instigation and complicity in bribery.

Developers identified as suspects include the Jordanian‑origin Moh brothers and Romanian‑Chinese businessman Yuan Ștefan, who are accused of providing illegal advertising and electoral consultancy services to Ciucu during the 2025 mayoral race. A Bulgarian citizen was also detained.

Ciucu, who is under preventive judicial control, has denounced the investigation as a “special operation” by “the system” and voiced criticism at a PNL congress, while party leader Ilie Bolojan expressed confidence in him.