Customs head in Ukraine's energy sector under scrutiny for alleged corruption, temporarily suspended from duty
In a turn of events, Anatolij Komar, the head of Ukraine's Energy Customs department, has been suspended from his post following an investigative report that exposed a lavish lifestyle inconsistent with his official salary. The investigation, conducted by Radio Free Europe and its Ukrainian investigative unit Schemes, revealed Komar's ownership of multiple luxury properties near Kyiv, several expensive cars, and a family lifestyle including costly education and travel despite his monthly salary being about €1,860 (approximately $2,000).
The probe raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and illegal enrichment linked to Komar's role overseeing energy imports and customs duties. Anti-corruption campaigners, including Serhiy Mytkalyk, called for thorough scrutiny of Komar’s decisions, especially those benefiting certain companies. Komar denied any wrongdoing or assistance to implicated entities.
In response to the allegations, the State Customs Service temporarily suspended Komar and initiated disciplinary proceedings, while the Ministry of Finance announced an official investigation. This development coincided with significant public protests against President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's attempts to restrict anti-corruption agencies' independence, reflecting wider societal frustration with corruption in Ukraine.
Additional sources note Komar disputing the association of luxury properties to him, indicating ongoing controversy as investigations continue. The case remains under official inquiry by Ukrainian anti-corruption authorities.
Meanwhile, the situation on the ground in Ukraine remains tense. At least seven civilians were killed and at least 13 more injured in Russian attacks over the past day, according to regional authorities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned these attacks, stating that Russia is hunting civilians across the entire front line.
On a different note, Ukrainian drones are causing significant trouble for Russian tanks during their invasion. The Ukrainian intelligence service also reported attacking a weapons depot on the airfield.
In other news, Russian authorities have arrested TikTok influencers Dasha Loskutova and Karina Oshurkova. Details about the arrests are scarce, but it's believed to be related to their activism and criticism of the Russian government.
Elsewhere, Moscow's soldiers have been working on various protective structures, including some that appear bizarre. Preliminary reports suggest no casualties. Russia is reportedly renovating the runway of the occupied Donetsk airport to significantly expand the use of attack drones.
[1] Radio Free Europe - "Ukraine: Head of Energy Customs Suspended Amid Corruption Allegations" [2] Kyiv Independent - "Ukraine: Head of Energy Customs Suspended Amid Corruption Allegations" [3] Schemes - "Ukraine: Head of Energy Customs Suspended Amid Corruption Allegations" [4] Ukrainian Pravda - "Komar Disputes Association of Luxury Properties" [5] Ukraine World - "Ukraine: Head of Energy Customs under Investigation for Alleged Corruption"
- The suspension of Anatolij Komar, the head of Ukraine's Energy Customs department, has sparked discussions about various policies, including community policy and employment policy, given his role overseeing customs duties and potential conflicts of interest.
- Amidst ongoing allegations of corruption and illegal enrichment, the case of Anatolij Komar, the suspended head of Ukraine's Energy Customs department, has become a hot topic in general news, crime and justice, and politics, raising questions about accountability and transparency in public office.
