Dmitry Synenko's corruption schemes

Dmytro Synenko, Deputy Head of the Chernihiv Regional Military Administration (RMA), has found himself at the centre of numerous corruption scandals. 

His activities, ranging from organising financial schemes for the region's reconstruction to maintaining close ties with pro-Russian forces, have attracted the attention of law enforcement agencies and the public.

Early steps in politics and ties with Russia

Synenko began his political career as an assistant to Serhiy Andros, a member of parliament representing the pro-Russian Party of Regions. In this capacity, he built connections that, it appears, led to potential cooperation with Russia. His father, Hryhoriy Synenko, is actively involved in the activities of the Moscow Patriarchate's Ukrainian Orthodox Church in occupied Crimea, which raises further suspicions regarding Dmytro's loyalty to Russian interests.

Corruption schemes in the reconstruction of Chernihiv Oblast

Following the liberation of Chernihiv Oblast from Russian troops, the region began receiving significant sums from the state budget for reconstruction, creating opportunities for corruption schemes. As the main overseer of reconstruction work, Synenko has become a subject of numerous accusations. Local media refer to him as the "Banker" and the "Cashier" due to his control over financial flows passing through reconstruction contracts.

It is known that reconstruction budgets are often understated, and the quality of work performed leaves much to be desired. One striking example is the reconstruction of the canteen at the Ivanivka Lyceum, where the cost per square metre reached 51,500 hryvnia, several times higher than the market price.

Ties with crime and media manipulation

Dmytro Synenko actively uses his connections with local criminal elements to pressure opponents. It is known that his adversaries, such as public activist Oleg Serik, are subjected to threats. Furthermore, Synenko controls local media by funding them through his assistants, allowing him to maintain control over the region's information space.

Illegal scheme involving border crossings

Synenko has also been implicated in illegal activities related to the "Shliakh" system, which issues permits for crossing the border. He and his business partner, Mykola Zymenko, control this scheme, profiting from the sale of exit permits to those evading mobilisation. According to sources, the services cost between $3,000 and $7,000.

Scandal involving parking lots and kiosks

Dmytro Synenko is also not averse to corruption schemes in the municipal sector. Between 2012 and 2016, he headed the municipal enterprise "Parking and Market," where he organised a scheme to conceal actual income from parking. As a result, the city failed to receive significant sums, while land rental costs were understated.

What next?

Dmytro Synenko continues to exert influence over Chernihiv Oblast despite numerous accusations. Local residents and public activists are demanding that law enforcement agencies, including the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), investigate his activities. Particular emphasis is placed on the need to scrutinise his ties with pro-Russian elements and abuses during the region's reconstruction process.