Moldova: Authorities increase security nationwide following April 25-26 explosions in breakaway Transnistria region /update 2

Event

Authorities in Moldova have increased security nationwide after a series of April 25-26 explosions in the breakaway Transnistria region. The government in Chisinau has issued orders to implement the following measures:

• Increased patrols and vehicle checks at international borders, as well as the border with Transnistria;

• Heightened security alert levels at critical infrastructure facilities;

• Public safety agencies placed on elevated alert status.

Separatist officials in Transnistria, on the other hand, have increased the enclave's terror threat level to "red" for 15 days and will establish checkpoints at city access points.

Increased security will likely cause sporadic transport disruptions, near border crossings, critical infrastructure, and government facilities. Security personnel and the general public will likely be especially vigilant in the coming days, which could prompt numerous false alarms; perceived threats and suspicious objects or activity could cause localized evacuations without warning.

Context

The breakaway Transnistria Region's Ministry of Security in Tiraspol was targeted in a suspected grenade launcher attack on April 25. The following day, two antennas used to broadcast Russian radio programs were damaged in explosions in the northern town of Mayak. Additional blasts reportedly occurred at a military base in Parcany near Tiraspol later on April 26. While there have as yet been no casualties reported from any of these incidents, authorities in Chisinau view them as potential "false flag" attacks by pro-war factions to escalate tensions and destabilize the security situation.

Advice

Heed all instructions from security forces. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Plan accordingly for short-term security-related disruptions, which could occur with little-to-no warning. Expect increased scrutiny and delays at transport hubs and other public places.