The former Macedonian Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski was found guilty of what was known as the "Tanko" case and is sentenced to 2 years in prison, while the Deputy Interior Minister Gjoko Popovski is sentenced with 6 years and 6 months in prison.
Gruevski, Popovski and former Interior Minister Gordana Jankulovska, were charged with the illegal purchase of a Mercedes car, which would be used for the needs of this ministry and prime minister.The car in question, according to local media, was purchased 600 thousand euros. In reading the verdict, the Judge Dobrila Kacarska cited all the evidence given during the trial, both at the request of the Special Prosecution Office and the Defense Counsel.
Gruevski was not present in the Court. The persons accused, according to Judge, first selected the car and made the order, and only then the tender was announced by the Ministry of Interior.
Jankuloska is determined to be tried in a special procedure because of pregnancy risk, while the decision will be taken at another hearing. Rumors are even greater for Popovsky, who one day ago received another conviction from the Criminal Court, linked this time by purchasing 300 cars for the needs of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
About 50 supporters of the former Macedonian Prime gathered in front of the Court premises, protesting against the verdict.