Breaking: Ukrainian State Bureau of Investigations Raids Commander’s Residence, Charges Pending
In a significant development, the State Bureau of Investigations (ГБР) conducted searches on December 28 at the residence of Colonel Oleg Poberezhnyuk, commander of the 211th pontoon-bridge brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (Сил поддержки ВСУ). A reliable source within law enforcement has confirmed this information to Ukrainian Truth.
Events Unfold:
The overnight operation took place on Saturday, with investigators seizing documents and evidence at the officer’s home. Pобережнюк was not present during the raid.
Investigators suspect that between February and July 2024, Pобережнюк was aware of instances of torture and inhumane treatment carried out by a subordinate officer, Vladyslav Pastukh, on soldiers under his command. However, Pобережнюк did not react to these reports or initiate proceedings to hold the officer accountable.
Consequently, Pобережнюк is likely to face charges under Part 4 of Article 426 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (negligence of military authorities, committed under martial law).
Background:
Previously, Oleksandra Matviichuk, the head of the Center for Civil Liberties, alleged severe abuses within the 211th Pontoon-Bridge Brigade,including physical violence, extortion, and favoritism.
In December, the National Police of the region charged Pобережнюк with abuse of power in connection with the construction of his private residence in Hmelnytskyi region, using subordinates for unpaid labor. Following a court decision, Pобережнюk was released on bail amounting to UAH 908,400 (approximately $25,000).
The State Bureau of Investigations is currently probing claims of systematic abuse and violence towards subordinates by personnel of the 211th pontoon-bridge brigade. The initial report, published on December 16, raises questions about the brigade’s command culture and treatment of soldiers.
As the investigation continues, Uрrаіnіан authorities are committed to upholding justice and assuring that military personnel adhere to the highest standards of conduct, particularly under the extraordinary circumstances of martial law. The outcome of this legal process will likely have significant repercussions for the brigade’s command structure and raise important questions about accountability in the Armed Forces.
We will continue to monitor this developing story and bring you further updates as they become available.
