The Ukrainian Security Service has arrested the army’s chief psychiatrist, Oleh Druz, following allegations of illegal enrichment involving over $1 million. Authorities discovered significant cash reserves and undeclared properties during a search of his residence.
Chief Psychiatrist of Ukraine’s Army Arrested Amid Corruption Allegations
Chief Psychiatrist of Ukraine’s Army Arrested Amid Corruption Allegations
Accusations against Oleh Druz involve illegal enrichment exceeding $1 million, leading to his detention by authorities.
The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) has detained its army's chief psychiatrist on serious allegations of "illegal enrichment" tied to earnings exceeding $1 million since Russia's invasion began in February 2022. The SBU, which has not publicly named the individual, has pointed to Oleh Druz as holding this position in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Investigators revealed that Druz was part of a commission assessing the fitness of individuals for military service. During a raid of his home, authorities uncovered $152,000 (£124,000) in cash alongside €34,000, which raised suspicions surrounding his financial dealings. Allegations surfaced that he had failed to report multiple assets, including three apartments in or near Kyiv, one in Odesa, two plots of land, and various luxury BMW vehicles. Notably, these properties were registered under his family members' names rather than his own.
As a result of these findings, Druz now faces a potential ten-year prison sentence on charges of illegal enrichment and making false declarations. His history includes similar accusations from 2017, when he failed to declare ownership of two SUVs and several properties, leading to a suspension from his duties.
Ukraine has been grappling with deeply rooted corruption issues for years. Notably, a Ukrainian MP faced charges for embezzling £220,000 in May, while over thirty conscription officials were dismissed earlier in 2023 due to bribery accusations and involvement in smuggling operations. The Ukrainian parliament also voted last year to disband military medical commissions after numerous allegations of bribery linked to service exemptions emerged, highlighting ongoing efforts in the nation’s fight against corruption.
