The Customs Authority is accused of having quickly authorized Tutunul România, controlled by the Murfatlar group, to produce and sell cigarettes, despite large debts to the state budget.

The Customs Authority has approved, in record time, the authorization of the company Tutunul România as a fiscal warehouse, allowing it to produce and sell the Carpați and Snagov cigarettes in Romania. This decision was made despite the fact that the company is under the control of the Murfatlar group and has debts of over 700 million lei to the state budget.

Sources indicate that the approval was signed by Elena Spătaru, head of the Bucharest Customs, after working hours, suggesting an unusual urgency. Tutunul România, largely owned by Angelica Ciaușu, sister of Vasile Ciaușu, has been involved in a circuit of companies that have significantly harmed the state budget. In the past, Retail Plus Services, which marketed these brands, entered into preventive concordat with large debts. Authorities are investigating the connections between the Murfatlar group and other companies, such as Houseofbrain and Murfatlar Vinul România, in the context of possible financial irregularities. Additionally, the Cigarette Factory, part of the group, is facing insolvency proceedings due to debts.

The Bucharest Tribunal will decide on the insolvency request on May 18.