In Poltava oblast, the SSU and the NABU have exposed a member of Myrhorod Town Council on corruption.

The official demanded a bribe from an agricultural entrepreneur. For the money, he promised the farmer to extend the lease term for the land plots and help to lease more land.

For almost USD 67,000, the deputy guaranteed to solve this issue at the executive committee’s land commission when the decision is considered.

The law enforcement agencies documented the crime and detained the suspect ‘red-handed’ after he received the bribe.

During the searches at his home and in the town council, investigators found documents with evidence of the offence.

The council member is to be served a notice of suspicion under Article 368.4 of the CCU (acceptance of an offer, promise or receipt of an unlawful benefit by an official).

The investigation is ongoing. The offender faces up to 12 years in prison with disqualification to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities for up to three years and confiscation of property.

The SSU Office in Poltava region carried out the operation jointly with the NABU under the procedural supervision of the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office.