The State Bureau of Investigation (BEB) is currently in the second phase of its employee assessment, involving 1,058 staff members divided into three waves. Every employee is expected to adhere to a unified standard during this evaluation process. Daily, I observe these dedicated individuals engaging in critical tasks such as analyzing financial transactions, identifying risks, and investigating economic crimes, all while preparing for their assessments.
As one detective completes a test, another is already heading to a search operation, highlighting the demanding nature of their work. Achievements reported below are a direct result of their efforts, illustrating how reforms can complement ongoing operations.
Recent cases underscore the challenges faced: a cigarette manufacturer in Rivne failed to pay UAH 2.3 billion in excise taxes; UAH 12 million in budget funds were embezzled during renovations of a children’s institution in Odesa; over UAH 2.5 million in losses were incurred from generators purchased at inflated prices in Chernivtsi; and a significant illegal tobacco cultivation site spanning 40 hectares was discovered in Volyn, leading to legal proceedings initiated by BEB. Additionally, UAH 35 million worth of smuggled electronics were found hidden in a vehicle, and UAH 47 million was misappropriated during the procurement of substandard modular shelters for schools, communities, and military purposes. Furthermore, UAH 244 million in VAT was lost to the budget due to schemes linked to a sanctioned Russian citizen. Five individuals involved in illegal online casino operations have been notified of their suspicions.
