Photo: NABU
An investigation linked to the high-profile corruption case involving former Supreme Court chairman Vsevolod Kniaziev is underway as detectives from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and prosecutors from the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office conduct searches connected to the Supreme Court.
According to NABU, investigative actions are taking place at the workplaces, homes, and vehicles of several current and former Supreme Court judges. Authorities specifically confirmed searches involving the ex-head of the Supreme Court, whose criminal case is currently being heard by the High Anti-Corruption Court.
The investigation centers on allegations that Kniaziev organized a bribery scheme tied to court rulings. In May 2023, he was detained on suspicion of receiving a $2.7 million bribe. Investigators say he acted together with notary Kyrylo Horburov and lawyer Oleh Horetskyi to secure favorable court decisions in exchange for money.
According to prosecutors, Horetskyi negotiated with Kniaziev, who allegedly coordinated with Supreme Court judges, determined the size of bribes, distributed funds, and managed communication with clients. However, other judges of the Supreme Court have not been formally charged due to insufficient evidence.
In late 2023, lawyer Horetskyi reportedly struck a plea deal with investigators and provided testimony regarding the operation of the scheme and alleged agreements involving oligarch Kostiantyn Zhevago, from whom investigators believe the bribe originated.
Kniaziev was suspended from administering justice in February 2024 and later dismissed from his judicial position by the High Council of Justice over serious disciplinary violations.
