Up to 10 years in prison: what is known about the corruption case involving SBU officials
16 March 19:23
The Security Service of Ukraine has reported the detention of two high-ranking officials and an intermediary suspected of attempting to organize an illegal scheme related to the amber business in the Rivne region, according to [Komersant].
According to the security service, the individuals in question are two deputy heads of regional SBU departments. According to the investigation, they allegedly organized the scheme and operated through an intermediary whom they used to liaise with the business community.
What are the suspects accused of?
Investigators believe that the officials demanded $620,000 from the head of a company operating in the amber mining sector that holds a de facto monopoly in this market.
In exchange for this money, law enforcement officials claim, they promised to:
- close the criminal case against the company;
- stop law enforcement pressure on the business.
The money was to be transferred through an intermediary who acted as the organizers’ representative.
Arrest during the money transfer
According to the SBU, all three suspects were caught red-handed.
This occurred during the transfer of a portion of the funds—over $270,000. Following the arrest, procedural actions were initiated and a notice of suspicion was prepared.
What charges are being brought
The suspects are facing charges under Part 3 of Article 368 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—receipt or extortion of an unlawful benefit by a public official.
If found guilty, they face:
- up to 10 years of imprisonment
- confiscation of property
- a ban on holding certain positions
Investigators also state that they are looking into the possible involvement of other individuals.
What is known about the positions of those detained
The names of the suspects have not been officially disclosed.
However, information previously circulated online suggesting that the suspects may include:
- the deputy head of the SBU department in Kyiv and the region
- the deputy head of the SBU office in Rivne region
This information has not been officially confirmed.
SBU’s Response
The agency stated that the operation is part of “systematic efforts to rid the service of corruption.”
The SBU emphasizes that it is continuing its investigation to identify all possible participants in the scheme.
