On 13 March 2012, after 2011 presidential elections in Transnistria when Igor Smirnov lost power, the Transnistrian authorities arrested Ionova on charges of embezzlement of state property, illegal business practices, abuse of power and forgery. It was reported that during search of her villa police exempted her collection of golden coins and gold bars.
On March 13, 2012, after the 2011 presidential elections in Transnistria where Igor Smirnov lost his power, the authorities arrested Ionova on charges of embezzling state assets, engaging in illegal business activities, abusing power, and forging documents. It was reported that during a search of her villa, police exempted her collection of golden coins and gold bars.