Police and prosecutors in Hâncești carried out searches at the homes of 16 people suspected of poaching. The operation took place as part of an investigation into illegal hunting and, following the raids, a number of illegally held weapons, ammunition and other evidence relevant to the investigation were seized, IPN reports.

The seized objects were sent to the Technical-Forensic and Judicial Expertise Center for examination. The authorities continue to examine the circumstances of the case, including how the weapons were acquired and the purpose of keeping them. Investigators are also considering the possible involvement of other people.

Under the legislation, those who voluntarily yield up illegally held firearms or ammunition are released from criminal or contravention liability.