The recent incident involving a member of Prime Minister Mickoski’s security detail, who removed confidential official documents from the Sector for Internal Affairs (SIA) Veles, highlights deep-seated corruption within the Ministry of Interior, according to the Levica party. This event is not isolated but reflects a broader issue compromising state security over several years.
The Levica party asserts this case reveals the existence of “moles” within the police force, who collaborate with criminal entities instead of safeguarding citizens. They recall a previous incident where the “Grchec” drug cartel operation, codenamed “Mountain,” was compromised due to corruption, enabling criminals to escape.
Furthermore, the disappearance of former Deputy Prime Minister Artan Grubi remains unexplained, fueling suspicions of systemic support for crime from high-ranking officials. The government’s apparent lack of interest in clarifying Grubi’s timely escape further exacerbates these concerns.
The Ministry of Interior’s delayed announcement of the official secret divulgence, only after public and media exposure, raises additional questions. The absence of any mention of Mickoski’s security in the Ministry’s Daily Bulletins until then is also noteworthy.
Photographs of officials from both past and present administrations alongside individuals from the criminal underworld further undermine institutional credibility. Prime Minister Mickoski’s appearance in a photograph at a gathering in Grchec with known drug leaders casts a shadow on the fight against organized crime.
The fact that the information was taken from SIA Veles, where prior cases of nepotism involving Minister Toshkovski have been uncovered, adds to the suspicion. Allegations of nepotism and abuse within the institution suggest a pattern of incorporating loyal staff who prioritize party and criminal interests over the law.
Levica urges the government to demonstrate a commitment to justice and security by immediately initiating a vetting process within the Ministry of Interior. They believe that a comprehensive review and cleansing of the police force are essential to restore public trust and ensure an effective fight against crime.