New Corruption Scandal Shakes Ukraine

Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Energy has been placed in pre-trial detention on charges of receiving a bribe of half a million dollars, investigators announced today, Monday, in a new corruption scandal involving a state official. The Ukrainian Security Service stated in a release, "The Deputy Minister of Energy in Kyiv has been arrested for receiving a bribe of half a million dollars." Investigators noted that the suspect, identified by media as Oleksandr Khilo, solicited bribes from mining company managers in western Ukraine who wanted to transfer equipment used in mines near the frontline. The official and three of his alleged accomplices were caught "in the act" and face a penalty of "up to 12 years in prison and confiscation of their property," according to a statement issued by the Ukrainian Security Service. Shortly after this statement was released, the Ukrainian government announced Khilo's dismissal from his position, without mentioning the charges against him.