Searches of former NABU employees: SBU explains the reason
25 September 2025 13:38
On September 25, the Security Service of Ukraine conducted searches of former NABU detectives. The investigative actions relate to abuses in the field of freight transportation at Ukrzaliznytsia. The SBU emphasizes that they have nothing to do with putting pressure on anti-corruption agencies. This was reported by "Komersant Ukrainian" with reference to the SBU.
The SBU’s position
According to the press service of the agency, the searches are conducted under court orders and concern Ukrzaliznytsia officials and private entrepreneurs who are involved in the investigation.
“On September 25, the Security Service of Ukraine launched a series of court-authorized searches in the criminal proceedings regarding abuses in the field of freight transportation at Ukrzaliznytsia. Investigative and operational measures are being taken exclusively at the offices of Ukrzaliznytsia officials and private entrepreneurs who are involved in the relevant criminal proceedings,” the statement said.
The SBU emphasized that these investigative actions are not related to pressure on the independence of anti-corruption institutions.
“The searches of Ukrzaliznytsia officials are not related to the ‘pressure on the independence of anti-corruption institutions’, as their representatives stated today. All activities are carried out in compliance with the laws of Ukraine,” the statement said.
They added that any abuses in the field of rail transportation are unacceptable, as this industry plays a key role in the logistics of the Defense Forces, supplying weapons and cargo to the front.
NABU’s response
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau stated that SBU officers conducted searches of former detectives who now work for Ukrzaliznytsia. According to the Bureau, this may be related to their previous activities, when they exposed organized criminal groups at state-owned enterprises, including the SBU itself.
“Such actions may indicate an increase in systemic pressure on the independence of anti-corruption institutions,” the NABU emphasized.
Previous scandals
This is not the first conflict between the SBU and the NABU. In July, the agencies already exchanged accusations: back then, NABU and SAPO employees were searched, and some of them were served with suspicions. Some employees were accused of collaboration with Russia, espionage and corruption.
In particular, Ruslan Magamedrasulov, head of the NABU’s Interregional Detective Department, was detained on suspicion of aiding Russia. He is charged with high treason and other crimes. Later, the investigation informed him of a new suspicion – of illegal tax schemes.
