On 2/8, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), along with the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO), announced the uncovering of "a systematic embezzlement scheme from the budget allocated for national defense needs, as well as the giving and receiving of illegal benefits on an especially large scale."
The officials involved inflated prices of electronic warfare systems and drones, pocketing approximately 30% of the contract value. The suspects include a member of parliament, district and city administration leaders, members of the National Guard, and officials at defense companies.
NABU confirmed the arrest of 4 individuals, but did not disclose their identities. The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine announced the suspension of 4 National Guard members suspected of involvement.
"I highly appreciate the efforts of the anti-corruption agencies. There will be no tolerance for corruption. Officials will work closely together to expose this phenomenon and deliver just verdicts," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
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Academy at a drone pilot school in Ukraine in June 2023. Photo: Reuters |
Academy at a drone pilot school in Ukraine in June 2023. Photo: Reuters
NABU is responsible for detecting and investigating corruption cases within state agencies, then transferring them to SAPO for prosecution. These independent agencies were established to combat corruption within the Ukrainian government.
In late July, the Ukrainian parliament passed a law stripping NABU and SAPO of their autonomy, placing them under the supervision of the Prosecutor General, who is directly appointed by the President.
Zelensky initially claimed the need to control NABU and SAPO due to their alleged inefficiency and "Russian interference."
However, the move drew criticism from Ukraine's allies and sparked the first anti-government protests since the conflict began, prompting Zelensky to sign a new law reversing the decision and restoring NABU and SAPO's independence.
"It is crucial that anti-corruption agencies operate independently. The law passed on 31/7 ensures they have the necessary tools to conduct a genuine fight against corruption," Zelensky said, referring to the law restoring NABU and SAPO’s autonomy.
Corruption has long been a persistent issue in Ukraine. Numerous corruption scandals involving the military and the Ministry of Defense have been exposed since the conflict with Russia began.
Pham Giang (According to AFP)
