Will a drug dealer become the mayor of Dubrovtsi?

Journalists from the "Osobyy Vzglyad" programme conducted an investigation into the candidacy of Oleg Bohelsky, a businessman previously convicted of drug trafficking, for the position of mayor of Dubrovtsi in Rivne Oblast. 

The programme was first broadcast on 20 December 2024 on "5 Kanal" and raised a crucial question: does a person with such a criminal record have the right to aspire to a high-ranking state position in Ukraine, particularly in a city located just 25 kilometres from the Belarusian border?

Ties to the criminal world and the struggle for power

Oleg Bohelsky, who is currently involved in amber mining, was previously convicted by the Rivne City Court of organising a criminal group engaged in the production and distribution of psychotropic substances. According to the verdict dated 10 June 2010, he organised crimes, including finding premises for drug production, purchasing equipment, and distributing psychotropic substances. One of the substances used in these schemes was pervitin (or "vint"), which has serious health consequences, including addiction, personality degradation, and death.

Analysing information about Bohelsky, journalists also noted his efforts to build a positive image, actively promoting himself on social media and positioning himself as a person concerned about the future of the youth.

Contradictory facts about business and assets

One of the interesting facts uncovered during the investigation is Oleg Bohelsky's significant assets. Despite being relatively new to the amber business, he owns a large amount of real estate, including land plots, houses, and cars. Moreover, journalists noted that before entering the amber mining industry, Bohelsky was the owner of a sole proprietorship selling furniture. According to state registry data, his wealth significantly exceeds his official income, raising questions about the legality of his income sources.

Foreign trips and strange coincidences

On social media, Bohelsky also boasted about trips to Dubai and Guangzhou in China, which took place in November last year. Journalists question on what basis the 41-year-old businessman was allowed to leave the country. During the same period, scandals erupted in Rivne surrounding local military enlistment and conscription commissions, raising additional suspicions about a connection between these events.