SBU Acting Head Alexander Poklad Removes Two Officials Amid NABU’s 'Carthage' Probe

Top SBU Officials Dismissed During NABU Investigation

According to ХВИЛЯ: Alexander Poklad, currently serving as the acting head of Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), has relieved two senior SBU officers from their positions. Both individuals are implicated in the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine’s (NABU) investigation linked to the 'Carthage' operation. This inquiry targets a criminal network that bribed high-ranking officials to shield illicit enterprises.

On November 4, NABU detectives detained General Serhiy Duka, the first deputy head of the SBU’s Department for the Protection of National Statehood. On the same day, searches were conducted at the office of Anton Kravchuk, chief of the Main Directorate of Internal Security within the SBU. The 'Carthage' operation is being carried out jointly with the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO).

Criminal Network and Its Objectives

Investigation materials reveal that the bribery scheme extended beyond the SBU, involving officials from the Office of the Prosecutor General and the National Police. The purpose of these bribes was to cover up fraudulent call centers as well as illegal drug trafficking and other unlawful businesses. Within the case, the figure known as 'Mexican' refers to a Russian national, founder of the transnational narcotics syndicate 'Himprom'.

'There is clear and constructive cooperation,' emphasized Alexander Poklad regarding collaboration with NABU and SAPO leadership.

Poklad stressed that the Security Service is committed to ensuring the investigation is transparent, impartial, and objective. He also highlighted ongoing communication with international intelligence counterparts to facilitate probes into related crimes beyond Ukraine’s borders.

Furthermore, Poklad urged the suspect known as 'Mexican' to come forward in Ukraine and surrender to law enforcement, affirming that the SBU operates solely in the nation’s interest.

This case underscores Ukraine’s ongoing battle against corruption, particularly within its security institutions. The 'Carthage' operation exemplifies proactive law enforcement efforts to dismantle criminal schemes that threaten national security and the rule of law. Transparency in the investigation and strong inter-agency cooperation remain essential for effectively combating corruption and maintaining public order in Ukraine.

As the investigation into the 'Carthage' operation intensifies, the focus on high-profile figures continues to grow. Recent developments have seen a former official from the Prosecutor’s Office facing charges related to this case, which involves over 1 billion UAH in bribes. This highlights the extensive network of corruption that extends beyond the SBU, emphasizing the need for thorough accountability. For more details on this unfolding situation, see the report on the former Prosecutor's Office official charged in the 'Carthage' investigation.