Interior Minister denies special protection for ex-DNA head Kovesi

Former chief prosecutor of the National Anti-corruption Directorate (DNA), Laura Codruta Kovesi has asked for special protection provided by the Guard and Protection Service (SPP) after having run DNA for 5 years and after having indicted influential people, but Interior Minister Carmen Dan has denied her request, arguing Kovesi can be protected by the Police and Gendarmerie as well. The Supreme Defence Council (CSAT) will have the final call in this matter.

Asked why she had given negative opinion to the continuation of SPP protection for the former anti-graft chief prosecutor, Interior Minister replied that every CSAT member has the freedom of option and that there is alternative for the security of the people who are no longer dignitaries, even when they fee threatened or are in a danger situation.

The Law 303/2003 says that „the protection of magistrates, policemen and gendarmes, as well as of their families, when their life or assets are under threat, is provided by Interior Ministry, according to the law”.

Law 550/2004 on the Gendarmerie organization also stipulates that „upon the request of physical or legal persons, for urgent matters, the Interior minister can OK the temporary protection of some people, values or special transports, other than the ones established by Government resolution”.