The Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine has initiated a large-scale internal investigation following the emergence of new facts during the second phase of the extensive Carthage special operation regarding potential assistance by prosecution employees to shadow schemes. The corresponding order was signed by Acting Prosecutor General Anton Kovalsky.
Reasons for Appointing the Check and Media Monitoring
The basis for the official start of the verification was data from media monitoring and publications regarding the probable participation of supervisory agency representatives in the processes of returning previously seized and arrested property. We are talking about assets that appear in criminal proceedings related to the activities of illegal fraudulent call centers and an extensive network called U420. At this stage, specific names of potential figures within the agency have not yet been established, but the internal audit should clarify the degree of employee involvement.
Investigation Details and Potential Abuse of Authority
Within the framework of the launched internal investigation, a special commission of the PGO will thoroughly check whether prosecution employees could have used their official status and official powers for personal or mercenary interests. In addition, investigators will assess whether any unlawful pressure was exerted on the official activities of other persons and whether other illegal actions were committed. The Prosecutor General's Office itself emphasizes that the very fact of appointing an audit does not automatically mean that anyone's guilt has been proven.
Context of the Carthage Operation and Scale of Exposures
The large-scale Carthage special operation is aimed at eliminating powerful criminal organizations operating under the cover of representatives of various law enforcement agencies. During the second phase of the investigation, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office officially announced the exposure of a major group. According to the investigation, it included incumbent officials of the Security Service of Ukraine, the National Police, and prosecution bodies.
Operation Results and Prospects for Legal Assessment
Members of the criminal scheme are incriminated with patronage over 52 fraudulent call centers, large-scale distribution of narcotic drugs, as well as the production of counterfeit cigarettes and fake currency. Investigative agencies are also checking information about the possible involvement of figures in serious crimes, including kidnappings and torture. If sufficient grounds are found based on the results of the internal investigation at the PGO, the leadership of the agency will make tough personnel and legal decisions within its competence.
