Mickoski: More arrests expected over corruption and cigarette smuggling

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski said further arrests are expected of former senior state officials, as well as current officials suspected of breaking the law. He made the comments during the “Only Interview” program on Kanal 5 television.

Mickoski said the government remains determined to take concrete, uncompromising action against corruption.

“Every report of corruption has been followed by action and arrests. It is not just the two directors arrested under the current government, as the number is higher, and more people are expected to be arrested if their actions continue. An operation was also carried out today as part of the fight against corruption,” Mickoski said.

He added that a cigarette-smuggling scheme that had operated for decades was thwarted earlier. The prime minister stressed that the investigation is still in its early stages and that further evidence may soon emerge concerning senior officials from several previous governments who are suspected of being involved in cigarette smuggling.

Mickoski urged citizens to report any cases of corruption, assuring them that their identities would be kept confidential. He also said that anyone proven to have been involved in corruption must be held accountable.

“I publicly urge citizens to report cases of corruption so that we can take action. We will also hold a press conference soon with an international organization. I do not accept political statements claiming there is corruption without evidence being presented. If it exists, then let’s report it,” Mickoski concluded. (INA)