Former head of Zakarpattia environmental inspection Mikhail Bank hiding in Cyprus

Illegal border crossing and flight to Hungary
Mikhail Bank, former head of the State Environmental Inspection in Zakarpattia, has gone on the run, having illegally left Ukraine. According to information published by Vitaliy Hlahola in his Telegram channel, Bank crossed the border outside official checkpoints, evading military service.

Detention in Hungary and new route to Cyprus
On his way to a new life in Europe, Bank was detained by Hungarian police in the settlement of Tiszaszentmarton, located near the Ukrainian village of Solovka (Uzhhorod district). However, despite the detention, Hungarian law enforcement officers soon released the former official, allowing him to continue his journey. According to Hlahola, he subsequently managed to reach Cyprus, where he is currently located.

Preceding events and the escape
Bank, as reported by local media, was summoned to the Uzhhorod District Recruitment and Social Support Centre (RTsK and SP) on 10 February for a military medical examination. He was deemed fit for service. According to the summons, he was required to report for conscription on 13 February. However, on 12 February, the official disappeared without a trace, and the following day it became known that he had fled across the border.

Criminal past and investigation
Mikhail Bank is under investigation by the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI). Investigators suspect him of abuse of office, having used his position while working in the police to pressure local authorities in Yaremche and forestry enterprises in the region. As a result of his actions, 26 land plots totalling 4.5 hectares were registered in the names of his relatives and nominees, which became the basis for a criminal case.