In a significant move against corruption, Ukraine has arrested its army's chief psychiatrist on charges of illegal enrichment, with allegations surfacing that he amassed over $1 million in undeclared wealth since the onset of the Russian invasion in February 2022. The detainee, identified by some sources as Oleh Druz, played a key role in the military's fitness evaluation commission. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) reported that extensive investigations revealed the psychiatrist possessed various high-value assets, including three apartments in or near Kyiv, one in Odesa, and several luxury BMW vehicles. During a search of his residence, investigators uncovered substantial amounts of cash, specifically $152,000 and €34,000, which were not reported as part of his assets.
Ukrainian Army's Chief Psychiatrist Arrested Amid Corruption Allegations
Ukrainian Army's Chief Psychiatrist Arrested Amid Corruption Allegations
A high-ranking military psychiatrist is taken into custody for suspected illegal enrichment linked to over $1 million in undeclared assets.
The SBU indicated that the properties linked to Druz were registered under the names of family members and other third parties, raising concerns over potential corruption. He faces a considerable prison sentence of up to ten years if convicted of the allegations concerning illegal enrichment and providing false information regarding his assets. This is not the first time Druz has faced scrutiny; in 2017, he was previously implicated in a similar matter for failing to declare luxury SUVs and other properties, resulting in his suspension from office.
Corruption remains a pervasive issue in Ukraine, with the government taking decisive actions against various officials. Earlier this year, a Ukrainian MP was charged for embezzling £220,000, and in response to widespread corruption in military service exemptions, more than 30 conscription officials were fired as part of an anti-corruption initiative. Furthermore, the Ukrainian parliament abolished military medical commissions after accusations of bribes surfaced, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to combat corruption within the military system.
As the situation unfolds, implications of such high-profile corruption cases might reflect on the wider struggles Ukraine faces in both its war against external aggression and the internal battle against systemic corruption.
Corruption remains a pervasive issue in Ukraine, with the government taking decisive actions against various officials. Earlier this year, a Ukrainian MP was charged for embezzling £220,000, and in response to widespread corruption in military service exemptions, more than 30 conscription officials were fired as part of an anti-corruption initiative. Furthermore, the Ukrainian parliament abolished military medical commissions after accusations of bribes surfaced, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to combat corruption within the military system.
As the situation unfolds, implications of such high-profile corruption cases might reflect on the wider struggles Ukraine faces in both its war against external aggression and the internal battle against systemic corruption.
