NABU: Investigation into Kobyev case completed

"On April 14, 2023, the NABU and SAPO completed the investigation into the charges brought against the former CEO of NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine over embezzlement of over UAH 229 million in 2018. The person's actions were classified under Part 5 of Art. 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine," NABU posted on Telegram.

NABU reports that the decision to disclose materials to the defense was made due to the decision of the High Anti-Corruption Court which refused to extend the investigation period.

As reported, on April 14, the High Anti-Corruption Court again denied NABU the extension of the investigation period regarding ex-CEO of Naftogaz of Ukraine Andr Kobyev.

Earlier, NABU declared the need to continue the investigation against Kobyev due to the emergence of new evidence – correspondence of persons who were invved in awarding him a bonus in the amount of UAH 229 million.

The Bureau made public part of the seized materials, which, as the agency explained, they decided to publish in view of the public outcry and a number of statements made by the defense side.

On April 12, an investigating judge of the High Anti-Corruption Court refused to grant the motion to extend the terms of the pre-trial investigation into the criminal case against Kobyev.

The terms of the pre-trial investigation into the case expire on April 19.

Kobyev was served with the notice of charges on January 19. According to the investigation, he illegally obtained bonuses worth more than UAH 229 million.

A pretrial restraint in the form of a UAH 229 million bail and an obligation to wear an electronic bracelet was awarded.