A number of Moldovans are investigated for allegedly being involved in thefts of high-performance bicycles in France. The bicycles valued at about €1.8 million were sold in Moldova and Ukraine. Following the detention in France of 12 Moldovans and three Ukrainians, searches were carried out last week in Moldova, in Chisinau, Cantemir and Cahul, IPN reports.

The General Police Inspectorate said that electric and carbon-framed bicycles were valued between €3,000 and €10,000. They were stolen by truck directly from warehouses or shops in France. In a period, they were transported outside France, to Europe, for sale. Later they were also transported to Moldova and Ukraine to be put on sale at a 20%-30% discount, as second-hand goods, over the Internet, without a receipt, as they did not have certificates or other bicycle documents.

In Moldova, four suspects aged between 35 and 45 are being investigated. All the four were previously tried in Moldova for theft and robbery.