Chief Psychiatrist of Ukrainian Army Arrested Amid Major Corruption Allegations

The chief psychiatrist of Ukraine’s army, identified as Oleh Druz, has been detained on corruption charges involving over $1 million in illicit enrichment. The Security Service unveiled significant accumulated wealth not declared, amid Ukraine’s ongoing struggle with systemic corruption.

Ukrainian authorities have arrested the army's chief psychiatrist, Oleh Druz, amid serious allegations of illegal enrichment amounting to over $1 million since Russia's invasion began in February 2022. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has stated that Druz played a critical role in a commission determining military service eligibility, where he is accused of illicit financial activities.

The SBU's investigation revealed Druz owned multiple properties, including three apartments near Kyiv, an apartment in Odesa, two plots of land, and several luxury BMW vehicles. During a search of his residence, investigators uncovered approximately $152,000 and €34,000 in cash that Druz allegedly failed to declare. It was found that many assets were registered under family members' names, leading to implications of significant financial misconduct.

Facing potential imprisonment of up to ten years for the charges of illegal enrichment and falsification of declarations, Druz’s history shows prior issues with transparency in his financial dealings. In 2017, he was involved in a similar case where he did not declare ownership of two SUVs and other properties, resulting in his suspension from duties.

Ukraine is grappling with a long-standing battle against deep-rooted corruption. Recent anti-corruption initiatives have seen similar cases emerge, including the arrest of a Ukrainian MP for embezzlement in May and the termination of over thirty conscription officials accused of bribe-taking this year. The legislature's decision to dismantle military medical commissions last year significantly reflects ongoing efforts to tackle pervasive corruption within military ranks.

As the war against corruption continues in Ukraine, this recent arrest reinforces the critical intersection of governance and military integrity amid tumultuous times.