Searches Conducted at the Prosecutor General's Office in Connection with the 'Carthage' Investigation
During searches at the Prosecutor General's Office related to the 'Carthage' case, National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) detectives confiscated a document listing key investigators who have reportedly faced pressure. However, no criminal case files were taken. Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko has announced suspicions against NABU Director Semen Kryvonos and an associate of Oleksandr Klymenko, head of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP).
The searches were authorized by the High Anti-Corruption Court as part of ongoing proceedings in the 'Carthage' case. Kravchenko explained that some criminal investigation materials had been stolen, which prompted the searches within the Prosecutor General’s Office building.
Official Statements and Responses
NABU Director Semen Kryvonos confirmed that only a report was seized during the searches—not any criminal investigation materials.
“The document taken contains information about cases involving our detectives, some of whom have previously discovered surveillance devices at their homes. These detectives handle critical criminal investigations,” he explained.Oleksandr Klymenko also commented, stating that the seized list detailed key investigators subjected to pressure, including information about measures taken or planned against them.
Kravenko formally signed charges against NABU Director Kryvonos and announced suspicions against an individual close to the SAP chief. This person is reportedly involved in influencing the head of the High Anti-Corruption Court, offering unlawful benefits, and assisting in evasion of mobilization. At the time of Kravchenko’s announcement, Kryvonos had not yet been officially served with the charges.
- President Volodymyr Zelensky suspended Ruslan Kravchenko from his position as Prosecutor General.
- In the early hours of September 14, Kravchenko left the country on an official business trip, traveling in a government vehicle.
- NABU denied claims that criminal case files were seized or that there were offers of immunity.
- Kryvonos emphasized his reluctance to politicize NABU and SAP’s work but expressed concern over recent attempts to embroil them in political disputes.
This episode highlights escalating tensions between Ukraine's law enforcement bodies, particularly between NABU and the Prosecutor General’s Office. The confiscation of a list identifying investigators under pressure reveals serious challenges that could undermine the country's anti-corruption efforts. Furthermore, Kravchenko’s suspension raises questions about potential political interference in the judiciary and the independence of institutions tasked with fighting corruption.
As the investigation unfolds, the situation surrounding the Prosecutor General's actions raises questions about the integrity of anti-corruption efforts in Ukraine. For further insights into how Kravchenko remains steadfast amidst the controversy, it's essential to explore the implications of these developments on the nation's fight against corruption.