Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has arrested the chief psychiatrist of the Ukrainian Armed Forces for allegedly amassing over $1 million (UAH 37 million) in unjustified wealth since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.
While the SBU did not mention his name, an individual named Oleh Druz had previously been identified as the chief psychiatrist of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
According to a statement released by the SBU, the psychiatrist, who is also the deputy head of the Central Military Medical Commission, is responsible for assessing the fitness of individuals for military service. The SBU alleges that he exploited his position to accumulate significant wealth, including undeclared luxury properties and vehicles.
During a raid on one of his properties, investigators reportedly uncovered $152,000 (UAH 5.5 million) in cash, €34,000, and documents tying him to three apartments in Kyiv and Odesa, two plots of land, and several high-end BMW vehicles. To conceal his ownership of these assets, the properties were allegedly registered under the names of his family members and associates.
🇺🇦🚨‼️ The SBU has detained the chief psychiatrist of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on suspicion of corruption.
He is also the deputy head of the Central Military Commission, deciding on the eligibility to serve of conscripts.
During searches, the police found cash worth almost… pic.twitter.com/SxCsTky551
— Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) January 21, 2025
While the SBU has not directly accused him of accepting bribes, Ukrainian media outlets have reported that he is suspected of taking payments to issue false medical exemptions for military service.
This is not the first time the psychiatrist has faced corruption allegations. In 2017, he was accused of failing to declare two SUVs and multiple properties but avoided prosecution after what critics described as a flawed investigation.
The suspect now faces charges of illegal enrichment and filing false declarations. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison.
The fight against systemic corruption has been a priority for President Volodymyr Zelensky as the country seeks continued financial and military aid from Western allies. In 2023, Ukraine conducted an anti-corruption purge that saw over 30 conscription officials dismissed for allegedly taking bribes to smuggle individuals out of the country and issue fraudulent military service exemptions.
