Hidden Millions and Crypto Secrets: Ex-Khmelnytskyi MEC Chief Caught in NACP Crosshairs

Tetiana Krupa, former head of the Khmelnytskyi Medical and Social Expertise Commission (MEC) and current deputy of the Khmelnytskyi Regional Council, is under investigation for serious financial misconduct. The National Agency on Corruption Prevention (NACP) has found that Krupa failed to declare over UAH 34.8 million in assets, including cryptocurrency, and possibly engaged in illegal enrichment. These findings have raised concerns about potential power abuse and wealth concealment.

Shocking Findings from the 2022 Declaration

The investigation began with an audit of Krupa’s 2022 financial declaration. NACP found that she and her husband transferred over UAH 38 million abroad in various currencies. However, the origin of UAH 16.4 million of these funds was undocumented and unreported in her declaration. This not only breached transparency requirements but also hinted at possible illegal enrichment.

Second Audit Reveals Even Deeper Discrepancies

Due to newly discovered circumstances, a second audit of Krupa’s 2023 declaration was launched. It revealed that she failed to include monetary assets worth UAH 18 million that were linked to her husband. Although officially under his name, the NACP highlighted that this information could not have been unknown to Krupa. The origin of these funds also lacked documentation, and the assets have since been seized during a pre-trial investigation.

Hidden Cryptocurrency Adds to the Case

Another major revelation was the concealment of cryptocurrency belonging to Krupa’s husband. The crypto assets were not declared, adding to the growing list of violations. This aspect of the case highlights the increasing role of digital currencies in financial misconduct and the importance of updating regulatory frameworks to track such assets.

Escalating Legal Action

As the evidence piled up, legal proceedings were swiftly initiated. On October 4, 2024, it was reported that Krupa and her son, who heads the regional Pension Fund office, were involved in a massive illegal enrichment scheme. The Pechersk District Court of Kyiv ordered Krupa’s detention. Later, on March 21, the High Anti-Corruption Court extended her detention until May 18, while reducing her bail from UAH 260 million to UAH 230 million. Subsequently, on March 31, the Appeals Chamber further lowered the bail to UAH 130 million.

Case Forwarded to NABU for Prosecution

Given the scale and severity of the violations, the NACP has forwarded all findings to the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU). The case has now become a central focus in Ukraine’s ongoing battle against corruption, especially within the public service and healthcare administration sectors.

A Symbol of Broader Corruption Challenges

The Krupa case stands as a striking example of the complex corruption challenges Ukraine faces. With tens of millions of hryvnias unaccounted for, hidden digital assets, and unverified financial transfers abroad, the case underscores the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and stricter financial monitoring of public officials.