Businessman Denies Bribing Officials in Romanian Corruption Probe

Businessman Fănel Bogos, a key figure in a Romanian corruption investigation involving interim Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan and former government official Cristina Trăilă, has provided his account of a meeting at Victoria Palace. Bogos, who is being investigated by DNA Iași, firmly denied allegations that he paid for access to the head of the executive branch.

In an interview with Antena 3 CNN, Bogos explained that neither Mihai Barbu, a former leader of PNL Vaslui, nor any other individuals solicited money from him for arranging the meeting. He asserted that the initiative stemmed from difficulties his companies were experiencing. Bogos highlighted that he manages the largest private investment in the Moldova region, valued at approximately 40 million euros, and was seeking solutions to his business challenges.

Bogos revealed that Mihai Barbu had previously suggested he become involved in politics, implying that affiliation with a political party would offer the best path to influence and administrative visibility. Meanwhile, sources indicate that Ilie Bolojan is expected to be interviewed by DNA prosecutors as a witness in the case concerning Cristina Trăilă. Bolojan himself confirmed meeting with Bogos but stated the meeting was scheduled through standard procedures and he was unaware of the businessman's legal issues.

The investigation reportedly focuses on alleged interventions related to changing the director of DSVSA Vaslui, Mihai Ponea. Cristina Trăilă's name appears in connection with alleged efforts to influence the head of the National Sanitary Veterinary and Food Safety Authority (ANSVSA). Bogos has denied filing a complaint against her. DNA alleges that between November 3-4, 2025, Trăilă supported Barbu's attempts to exert influence over ANSVSA leadership.

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He always talked about music, anecdotes, experiences. The relationship was more about affection than intellect.