Journalist and former deputy found dead in Yampl
In the city of Yampl in the Sumy region, journalist and former deputy Oleksandr Takhtai was found dead in his apartment on September 5. This was reported by 'Glavkom' referring to 'Suspilne Sumi'.
Currently, law enforcement is establishing all the circumstances surrounding the journalist's death. The final cause of death will be determined by the results of the examination and further investigative actions, including whether it could be related to his professional activities.
It was noted that Takhtai was investigating corruption schemes during the construction of fortifications in the region.
We remind that Oleksandr Takhtai is a former chief editor of the newspaper 'Yampilskyi Krai' and a former deputy of the Yampil District Council. In August 2025, he stated that unknown armed individuals shot at his dacha, and later a smoke grenade was found in his apartment.
At that time, the journalist suspected that the attack could involve an SBU employee and a reserve officer. The police reported that a criminal proceeding was opened on this fact under part 1 of Article 296 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - 'Hooliganism, which is a gross violation of public order motivated by a clear disrespect for society, accompanied by particular audacity or exceptional cynicism.'
As clarified by the Sumy region police communication department, as of September 6, the pre-trial investigation in this case is ongoing.
The event of the death of journalist and former deputy Oleksandr Takhtai in Yampl once again underscores the importance of the development of freedom of speech and the protection of journalists in modern society. Until this moment, law enforcement continues to investigate to establish all the circumstances of this tragic event.