Ukraine's Chief Army Psychiatrist Arrested on $1M Corruption Charges
Ukraine’s top military psychiatrist has been arrested on charges of “illegal enrichment” after allegedly amassing over $1 million (£813,000) in assets since the Russian invasion began in February 2022, according to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).
The accused, who played a key role on a commission determining fitness for military service, has not been officially named. However, previous reports suggest the position was held by Oleh Druz.
The SBU revealed that the psychiatrist owned an array of high-value assets, including three apartments in Kyiv and its surroundings, another property in Odesa, two plots of land, and multiple BMW luxury cars. Investigators also uncovered $152,000 (£124,000) in cash and €34,000 hidden at his residence.
What raised further suspicion was that none of the properties were listed in his name; instead, they were registered under his wife, children, and other associates, a move that investigators claim was an attempt to conceal the assets.
If convicted, the accused could face up to ten years in prison on charges of illegal enrichment and filing false declarations.
This isn’t the first time the psychiatrist has faced scrutiny. Back in 2017, Druz was implicated in a similar corruption case for failing to disclose ownership of two SUVs and multiple properties. That scandal led to his suspension.
Corruption remains a significant challenge in Ukraine, with high-profile cases surfacing regularly. Just last year, the Ukrainian parliament abolished military medical commissions after officials were accused of taking bribes to issue military service exemptions. More recently, over 30 conscription officials were dismissed for bribery and smuggling people out of the country.
In May 2023, a Ukrainian MP faced charges for embezzling £220,000 in government funds. The SBU continues its anti-corruption efforts, which have become particularly crucial amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
This latest arrest underscores the country’s ongoing struggle to root out corruption within its institutions during a time of war and heightened national challenges.
