Ukrainian Anti-Corruption Agency Probes Multi-Million Dollar Schemes in Security Service Under Former Chief

NABU Launches Investigation into SBU Corruption

According to ХВИЛЯ: The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) has initiated a criminal investigation into alleged corruption within the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) during the tenure of its former head, Ivan Bakanov. The probe was triggered by public allegations from businessman Serhiy Vahanyan, who claims to have participated in corrupt schemes and details financial arrangements with the leadership of the security agency. The case has been opened under articles of the Criminal Code pertaining to the receipt of unlawful benefit.

Serhiy Vahanyan asserts that he paid between 30 and 50 percent of his profits as a 'token of gratitude' to avoid problems with regulatory authorities. According to his account, the sums funneled monthly to the SBU amounted to millions of dollars, and in some individual cases reached as high as ten million.

Ivan Bakanov, who led the SBU, was suspended from his duties in July 2022. His colleague, Andriy Naumov, who at the time headed the SBU's Main Directorate of Internal Security, is suspected of state treason. Naumov was detained on June 7, 2022, and was released from a Serbian prison in early December 2023.

Presidential Reaction and Public Response

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented on the situation, stating:

“If Ivan Bakanov is truly guilty, he will be punished.” - Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The NABU investigation has sparked significant public debate, drawing attention to a system of extortion within the SBU and the potential financial schemes that may have operated under Bakanov's leadership. This case unfolds against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny over corruption in Ukraine and urgent calls for reform within law enforcement bodies.

The scope of the NABU inquiry extends beyond the personal accountability of Ivan Bakanov to examine broader management practices within the SBU, which could have far-reaching consequences for the reputation of Ukraine's law enforcement institutions. In a country where corruption remains a critical challenge, such revelations are likely to fuel public demand for deep and systemic reforms in security and law enforcement sectors.