**Ukrainian Anti-Corruption Activist’s Home and Military Unit Searched**
Law enforcement agencies in Ukraine have been conducting searches at the home and military unit of Vitaliy Shabunin, a prominent anti-corruption activist. Shabunin is currently serving in the army and is the head of the Anti-Corruption Action Center’s (AntAC) executive board.
According to AntAC, the searches are taking place without a court order. The exact reason for the searches remains unclear, but Shabunin’s team believes it may be connected to a criminal case involving Viktor Yushko, a serviceman and former commander of the 207th battalion of the territorial defense of Kyiv.
**Criticizing the Government**
Shabunin has been a vocal critic of Ukraine’s government, particularly President Volodymyr Zelensky’s administration. In May, he told The Kyiv Independent that three criminal cases had been opened against him since the start of the full-scale war in Ukraine. He believes these cases to be politically motivated and linked to the President’s Office.
**A Pattern of Intimidation**
This latest development is part of a pattern of intimidation against Shabunin and AntAC, according to their statement. The searches are seen as another attempt to silence him for criticizing the Presidential Office and its head, Andrii Yermak.
“This is just another wave of attack on Vitaliy Shabunin and AntAC for speaking truth to power,” said a spokesperson for AntAC.
**Investigations and Controversies**
Viktor Yushko, a serviceman accused of authorizing fictitious business trips for military personnel, including Shabunin, is currently under investigation. This case may be connected to the searches at Shabunin’s home and military unit.
Yushko is suspected of approving Shabunin’s business trip to the National Agency for the Prevention of Corruption (NACP), allegedly allowing him to avoid combat duties.
**Commentary**
This incident highlights the challenges faced by anti-corruption activists in Ukraine. The targeting of individuals who speak out against government corruption and abuse of power is a concerning trend that undermines trust in institutions and democracy.
As Kateryna Denisova, News Editor at The Kyiv Independent, notes, “The searches are taking place without a court order, which raises questions about the legitimacy and motives behind this action.”
**Read More**
For more information on this story and other news from Ukraine, please visit [kyivindependent.com](http://kyivindependent.com).
