Former Ukrainian Border Guard Chief Searched in Cigarette Smuggling Probe

Searches at Sergei Deineko's Premises

According to Главком: Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) are conducting searches at the home of former State Border Guard Service head Sergei Deineko. These actions are part of a criminal investigation into illicit benefits linked to cigarette smuggling.

On January 4, Sergei Deineko was appointed as an advisor to Ukraine's Minister of Internal Affairs. He decided to continue his military service in this new advisory role. Following a brief rehabilitation period, Deineko is slated to be appointed as a commander of a combat unit within the State Border Guard Service.

Internal Affairs Minister's Statement

Internal Affairs Minister Ihor Klymenko stated that he values General Deineko's managerial experience, gained over more than six years as head of the Border Guard Service, as well as his combat achievements. The minister also expressed hope for Deineko's expert support and advice on matters of state border security.

This investigation is part of Ukraine's intensified anti-corruption drive, a key condition for its Euro-Atlantic integration. The probe into Sergei Deineko could significantly impact public trust in Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions and the political landscape, given his recent appointment to a key role in the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The outcome of the investigation may influence Deineko's future career and his role in ensuring border security.