In a recent development in the fight against corruption in Russia, former Deputy Defense Minister Pavel Popov has been charged with fraud. The investigation revealed that Popov, along with other officials, allegedly misappropriated funds while overseeing the operations of Moscow’s Patriot Park, a popular theme park and exhibition center.
Patriot Park, known for its military equipment displays and WWII-themed exhibits, has been at the center of a corruption scandal involving Popov, Vladimir Shesterov, and Vyacheslav Akhmedov. The trio are accused of embezzlement and misuse of park funds for personal gain.
According to Svetlana Petrenko, a spokeswoman for Russia’s Investigative Committee, Popov used his position to benefit financially, manipulating contractors and diverting resources for personal projects. The investigation also revealed that Popov and his family own multiple properties worth millions of rubles, prompting further scrutiny into the legality of their acquisition.
This latest case adds to a series of corruption scandals plaguing high-ranking military officials in Russia, underscoring the government’s commitment to rooting out dishonest practices within its ranks.