Former Romanian presidential candidate Georgescu detained on suspicion of fraud
The ultranationalist politician, who was accused of fomenting a violent coup in Bucharest, is facing a battery of criminal cases.
Former presidential candidate Călin Georgescu was arrested by Romanian police on Monday on suspicion of fraud and forming an organized criminal group. The ultranationalist politician gained attention after winning the first round of the November 2024 presidential election with 23% of the vote. However, his victory was annulled by the Constitutional Court in December the same year due to alleged connections to a Russian influence operation.
Roman authorities are currently investigating Georgescu for committing fraud and allegedly deceiving a Romanian businessman by promising access to foreign bank financing in exchange for cash guarantees. The alleged scheme reportedly aimed to obtain financial guarantees deposited by the victim to secure credits, leading to a loss of more than €1.1 million for the businessman.
Georgescu is already facing two other criminal charges: one involving alleged efforts to overthrow Romania's constitutional order through a violent coup, and another for promoting fascist ideology. Despite facing these allegations, Georgescu maintains his innocence, claiming the cases are politically motivated. Dozens of Georgescu's supporters gathered outside the DIICOT headquarters on Monday to await his questioning.
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