The UA.NEWS editorial team is once again calling on the NABU Investigation Department to take control of the case involving former prosecutor Verbytsky and to provide information on the progress of the investigation
The online media outlet UA.NEWS has sent a follow-up request to the Public Oversight Council (POC) at the National Anti-Corruption Bureau. Journalists are demanding a report on the investigation into the case of former Deputy Prosecutor General Dmytro Verbytskyi, as the editorial team’s previous request was effectively ignored.
The reason for the second request was the lack of progress in criminal proceeding No. 52024000000000231. The case regarding Verbytsky’s alleged illicit enrichment was opened back in May 2024 following a series of media investigations into his wealth. However, after two years of investigation, NABU has not yet charged any suspect, and the case materials have not yet been transferred to court.
The editorial board insists on the creation of a special commission or expert group under the Public Control Council to monitor the progress of the investigation. Journalists emphasize that the “ongoing” status, which the Bureau limits itself to in its responses, does not explain the two-year pause in the investigation into the former high-ranking official’s assets, including luxury real estate in the “Konik” cottage community and property belonging to his inner circle.
According to current regulations, the Public Oversight Council is required to ensure civilian oversight of NABU’s activities. That is why UA.NEWS demands that the case against Verbytsky be included in the list of cases under the Council’s special supervision. Journalists plan to continue appealing to the Public Control Council until they receive comprehensive information on the status of the investigation that does not constitute a secret of the investigation.
Incidentally, the controversial former Deputy Prosecutor General Dmytro Verbytskyi was unable to “whitewash” his assets through the courts. The Kyiv District Administrative Court confirmed that the conclusion by NACP investigators that Verbytskyi had 37.5 million “excess” hryvnias is lawful.
Verbytsky was dismissed from the Office of the Prosecutor General in July 2024, but the criminal case against him for “illegal enrichment” continues.
He really wanted a court ruling stating that the NACP was wrong and that his reputation is, in fact, spotless. But that did not happen. Now, NABU investigators have even more leverage in the investigation, as the court confirmed that there is no explanation for the 37.5 million hryvnias.
