Former Deputy Director of the Bureau of Economic Security (BEB) Vitalii Gagach, who was dismissed following a series of high-profile media investigations, has relocated to Monaco and is currently looking for real estate in the UAE to avoid potential criminal prosecution. According to internal sources, the former official learned about an impending notice of suspicion being prepared by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) regarding illegal schemes in the gambling industry.
According to sources, Vitalii Gagach operated in coordination with Oleh Tatarov, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine. Investigators are examining data indicating that the individuals involved allegedly exerted systematic pressure on gambling operators, demanding monthly payments for political protection («racketeering»).
The conflict escalated after the operators demanded an increase in monthly payments from major betting company FavBet, raising the sum from $2 million to $3 million. Following FavBet’s refusal to pay, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) initiated enforcement actions against the operator, alleging ties to the Russian Federation. In response, FavBet’s owner turned to NABU, providing detectives with evidence of financial transactions, including crypto wallet details allegedly used to transfer funds.
«The total amount of funds the suspects may have accumulated over years of such activity is estimated at over $100 million, with their combined net worth potentially exceeding $600 million.»
Despite his dismissal from office, Vitalii Gagach continues to maintain influence over internal processes within the BEB and keeps close ties with high-ranking government officials. Meanwhile, Oleh Tatarov retains his post as Deputy Head of the President’s Office.
At present, the claims regarding cryptocurrency transfers and illicit enrichment require official confirmation by law enforcement agencies. No formal notices of suspicion have been officially served to the suspects in the NABU investigation.