MP exposed for laundering over UAH 9 million (PHOTO)

NABU and SAPO have announced suspicion against a sitting Member of Parliament of Ukraine for the legalization (laundering) of proceeds obtained through criminal activity.

According to the investigation, the MP misappropriated funds belonging to a private company after promising its representatives assistance in obtaining a permit for the cross-border transportation of mineral fertilizers. After receiving the money into the bank account of a close associate, the suspect took no action whatsoever in the interests of the company.

In order to conceal the illicit origin of the funds, the MP devised a money-laundering scheme.

Initially, more than UAH 9 million was transferred to the accounts of a law firm owned by a close relative of the MP, under the guise of payment for legal services. Subsequently, part of these funds was transferred to another account and used to purchase two premium vehicles — a BMW X5 M (F95) and a Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG.

The suspect later began openly using these vehicles, creating the appearance that they had been acquired using lawful income from business activities.

The individual’s actions fall under Part 2 of Article 209 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

The pre-trial investigation is ongoing. Other circumstances of the offense and additional persons involved are being established.