The Security Service of Ukraine has announced the launch of large-scale counterintelligence measures against the well-known “lawyer in the law” Sergey Oliynik, more widely known by his nickname “Umka

Chas Pravdy - 16 May 2025 10:19

" This marks another stage in the efforts of Ukrainian special services to combat organized crime, which in recent years has acquired particular relevance in the context of the country's security situation. According to official representatives of the SBU, a series of actions were carried out in April 2025 aimed at minimizing the influence of Oliynik and his associates on Ukraine’s internal political and criminal landscape. In particular, their measures included revoking residence permits for six foreign nationals within "Umka's" circle. This decision became a symbol of systemic resistance to criminal structures seeking to use legal residency mechanisms to conceal illegal activities and influence Ukrainian institutions. Official sources emphasize that these measures are strictly targeted against any manifestations of criminal influence, as such processes are rooted in well-established links between the criminal world and officials, which can evolve into systemic threats to national security. In this context, it is worth noting that criminal proceedings concerning Oliynik are already under investigation by the National Police, and he is likely to be charged under Articles 225-1 and 225-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which address establishing criminal influence and participation in criminal gatherings. The background of these events began earlier. On May 10, media outlets, including ZN.UA citing sources within the security services, reported the detention of "Umka" in Kyiv. It was then revealed that the detained individual’s vehicle was equipped with special signals—unregistered and illegal—indicating violations of the law and possible involvement in illegal operations. Furthermore, during the arrest, additional communication tools and equipment were confiscated, raising concerns about the scale and objectives of his activities. The fact of his detention was not the only incident related to "Umka." In early May, on the 9th, Ukrainian media reported on the birthday celebration of Kostyantyn Kolomyits, a high-ranking official in the state security system who oversees issues related to countering threats to the state, particularly in the realm of economic security. The event was attended by representatives of law enforcement agencies, including heads and employees of various units. Reviewing photos and videos from third-party observers, journalists noted the presence of Sergey Oliynik, adding further intrigue to the story. As early as 2021, he was sanctioned by the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine as one of the main "lawyers in the law" operating within the country. According to information released following this incident, Anatoliy Loif, head of the Main Directorate of Counterintelligence in the sphere of economic security, responsible for fighting against the criminal world, was compelled to leave his position. This signaled a clear message that active efforts against organized crime are vital for the protection of national interests. The full spectrum of actions by the SBU and other law enforcement agencies is aimed not only at preventing the legalization of criminal influence but also at uncovering and dismantling networks operating in covert and unobvious forms. This is especially important given that organized crime is increasingly utilizing modern technologies, and "black" capital is returning to Ukraine, undermining the stability of state institutions. Overall, this case serves as yet another convincing proof that Ukrainian security agencies do not intend to overlook any manifestation of criminal structures, regardless of their influence or support within the circles of power. They continue to work systematically with the aim of dismantling corruption and criminal schemes that threaten security and stability in the country, and will do everything possible to strengthen the protection of national interests.

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