https://www.wect.com/2025/07/16/search-continues-man-involved-multi-million-dollar-international-money-laundering-scheme/

A warrant for arrest is still out for one man involved in a multi-million dollar money laundering scheme.

Investigators are still looking for Vasile Virlizanu, who they believe helped scam millions of dollars from victims across the country, including two people in Pender County.

On February 19, two people contacted the county sheriff’s office saying they were scammed out of $31,000 after purchasing an antique vehicle online.

“The two people agreed to purchase a vehicle from a dealership website, with all the information appearing factual. The individuals agreed on a purchase price and a delivery service. The vehicle was never delivered and communication ended,” said Sheriff Alan Cutler with the Pender County Sheriff’s Office.

From here, investigators allegedly identified brothers Valentin and Vasile Virlizanu as running the alleged phony car dealership.

As people purchased cars, the money would go to bank accounts in Russia and Moldova, and this is when investigators began to connect the dots.

“So many scam cases that we have just have no leads, or no way to track the information down. There’s really no way of investigating them. So we’re really excited that we were able to track these leads down and tie them to a very broad operation that actually reaches out throughout our whole nation,” said Sheriff Cutler.

Several states have helped with the investigation, and Sheriff Cutler expects even more victims to come forward.

“This case is gonna, before it’s over with, I’m sure we’ll reach nationwide and it’s going to involve millions of dollars being scammed in the long run,” said Sheriff Cutler.

We’re told a scam like this could happen anywhere, but the recent rise in crime could be attributed to the rise in population in the county.

“With more people, unfortunately, comes more crime. This is a money laundering case, but it’s also a scam case as well,” said Sheriff Cutler.

Since scams are all too common, the Sheriff’s Office urges people to be extra diligent when purchasing something online.

“Obviously, do diligence in investigating all the details that are involved. And if you have any questions, just call our office and we’d be glad to assist to make sure you don’t become a victim of a scam,” said Sheriff Cutler.

The Sheriff’s Office is working to get people their money back, but there is no guarantee.

PCSO will continue to work with the SBI and federal agencies that can help them with the investigation to get Vasile Virlizanu in custody.