The focus of law enforcement agencies is on possible abuses involving Nazariy Husakov, a young man whom the public actively supported in raising funds for the treatment of a severe genetic disease—spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
It has been revealed that the National Police of Ukraine unexpectedly initiated two criminal proceedings related to the collection and use of charitable funds, prompting widespread public discussion and coverage by various media outlets. Source: official press release of the National Police of Ukraine. According to law enforcement officials, information was received suggesting that Nazariy Husakov may have committed fraud. Police emphasize that the circumstances are being objectively investigated, and criminal proceedings have been opened under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—Part 4 of Article 190 (fraud) and Part 3 of Article 209 (legalization (laundering) of proceeds from criminal activity). As part of the investigation, the circle of victims is being established, all individuals potentially harmed by the illegal acts are being identified, and the whereabouts of Husakov and his possible accomplices are being determined. The police highlight that preliminary investigative actions have revealed that the collected funds were processed through at least four different financial institutions and digital platforms. This indicates the complexity and scale of the fraudulent schemes involved. Importantly, criminal cases involve not only illegal fundraising but also the illegal laundering of funds within specialized financial structures. Regarding the current situation, investigators will clarify all circumstances concerning the victims—Ukrainians who may have lost their money in this scheme. At the same time, law enforcement is working to determine where Nazariy Husakov is currently located and whether he has accomplices assisting in carrying out illegal activities. The background of this situation raises many questions and concerns within society. Last week, Ukraine’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Ihor Klymenko, reported to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about the circumstances surrounding public fundraising for Nazariy Husakov. The president officially requested the relevant authorities to investigate potential violations and allegations. The police have begun active checks and also uncovered that, according to various reports, Husakov has already left Ukraine, adding another layer of difficulty to the investigation. Earlier, the public and media heightened discussions around Husakov’s case. His name became associated with a significant scandal due to a lack of transparency in the collection and utilization of charitable funds. Local authorities, including the mayor of Lviv, Andriy Sadovyi, stressed that Husakov had received medications free of charge for a year and was not properly accountable regarding the use of the donations collected. Meanwhile, Husakov himself insisted that the amount of medication received was still insufficient for effective treatment and called for additional aid. On June 19, Ihor Husakov made an unexpected move—urging the public not to send him financial support—which sparked further resonance and increased suspicions of potential fraudulent schemes. In light of recent media attention, questions relating to public trust in charitable organizations and volunteer initiatives helping the seriously ill have intensified. The public and media are urging for greater transparency in execution procedures and careful verification of each fundraising campaign. Particular attention is drawn to how the collected funds were utilized, as many have raised concerns about possible misappropriation or improper handling of the money. It should be noted that banking and digital services involved in these financial transactions will be scrutinized thoroughly as part of the investigation. This will help establish the actual routes of money movement and identify those who potentially gained benefit from fraudulent activities. Overall, the situation with Nazariy Husakov raises serious concern not only among law enforcement but also within society. The investigation is expected to continue for some time, and the legal evaluation of the young man’s actions will be crucial for uncovering the full truth and preventing similar schemes in the future. Official statements regarding the progress of the investigation are expected to be released soon, and public reaction should remain vigilant, demanding transparency in charitable initiatives that build trust and support those who truly need it.