Head of SAPO Declares Priority in Investigation of Shurma Case
Oleksandr Klymenko, the head of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), discussed in an interview with ZN.UA the current status and strategic focus of the investigation into the criminal case involving former Deputy Head of the Presidential Office, Rostislav Shurma.
He emphasized that the case related to the ‘green tariff’ scheme and potential corruption is among the highest priorities of his agency.Klymenko explained that leaking details about investigative procedures and their outcomes prematurely can be counterproductive.
He reiterated that publicly commenting on ongoing investigations must be cautious to avoid violating the presumption of innocence and jeopardizing the case.
“We have faced legal complaints from defense teams for oversharing information, but we do not deny that searches took place.”He also confirmed that searches in Shurma’s Munich residence occurred on July 15 with the cooperation of German law enforcement agencies and NABU.
However, he refused to disclose details about international requests, citing the importance of maintaining investigative secrecy.
Such information, he argued, could alert suspects and compromise the investigation.Klymenko highlighted that their approach is to focus on obtaining results rather than revealing plans.
“Our reports should state actual outcomes, not intentions,” he stated.This series of searches has been reported as a critical event influencing President Zelensky’s political decisions.
A week later, Zelensky publicly accused anti-corruption agencies of inefficiency and signed legislation that substantially limits their independence and operational freedom.