The National Agency for the Prevention of Corruption (NAPC) is currently looking into the lifestyle of Yevhen Sokur, the former acting deputy head of Ukraine’s State Tax Service. He’s now working as an assistant to MP Danylo Hetmantsev. NAPC Chairman Viktor Pavlushchyk confirmed this in a recent interview.
Pavlushchyk shared that the monitoring isn’t finished yet, noting that the timeline for audits can vary widely. He explained that the duration depends on the details being examined. Some information is easy to access and verify, while other details may be hidden, requiring more time to investigate.
When asked about any preliminary findings, Pavlushchyk remained tight-lipped. He emphasized the need for collaboration with other law enforcement bodies during such investigations, and preferred to wait until a procedural decision is made before sharing any information.
Background on Yevhen Sokur
In earlier investigations related to a suspected assassination attempt, Sokur disclosed details about his life with Alina, his partner since 2016. They reside together at an apartment on Lobanovskoho Avenue. Following a request from MP Nina Yuzhanina, the NAPC launched a probe into Sokur. Kateryna Butko, head of the Public Council at the NAPC, pointed out that they are looking into whether Sokur and Alina share a common life.
More recently, it was revealed that Alina Lebedeva, Sokur’s partner, runs a flower boutique in Kyiv. She registered as a sole proprietor in August 2022, shortly after Sokur was promoted in the tax office. Alina’s business has been thriving, and she celebrated her success with the opening of a new boutique in a prominent building in the capital.
Critics, like Serhiy Dorotych from the #SaveFOP movement, have speculated about the potential for money laundering through her business operations. They raised concerns about how Sokur’s position may have influenced the success of her boutique.
In addition to these investigations, Sokur faces serious allegations of misconduct. The State Bureau of Investigation initiated a case against him for allegedly abusing his office. This investigation focuses on his decision to revoke a crucial license for fuel production, which reportedly had significant negative consequences for a company and national defense efforts. The case is still active and under examination by the SBI.
