Moldova's central bank governor quits after protest over $1.5 bln which disappeared from banks

CHISINAU, Moldova – Moldova's central bank governor has resigned, following weeks of street protests over $1.5 billion that disappeared from three Moldovan banks.

Dorin Dragutanu, governor of the National Bank of Moldova stepped down Monday and accused politicians of interfering in the bank's internal affairs.

Dragutanu claimed politicians had tried to discredit the central bank.

Tens of thousands of protesters began a protest in a pedestrian square in Chisinau on Sept. 6, and erected tents, calling for a probe into the money which disappeared before a parliamentary election last November. About 200 continue to protest.

The three banks were put under the administration of the central bank and will be liquidated by October. Losses were covered by state reserves.