Kremlin points to Zakharchenko case as solid proof of fighting corruption

MOSCOW, September 14. /TASS/. The Kremlin considers the case of Dmitry Zakharchenko, the Interior Ministry colonel from whom a "remarkably huge" amount of money - 9 billion rubles in foreign currency - was seized, as clear evidence of the painstaking efforts undertaken to combat corruption.

"We know that a consistent policy in fighting corruption has been pursued in the country. In fact, this case that impressed everyone with the sum in question, is a vivid evidence," Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. According to him, this is about "consistent, purposeful and painstaking efforts" to combat corruption.

"This work takes time, no one can expect immediate results, because this effort produces a cumulative effect and results emerge with time", the Kremlin spokesman said.

Peskov also said that the question of suspending any officials involved in Zakharchenko’s case hadn’t been raised yet. "We have to wait for the outcome of the investigation," The spokesman explained when asked if this case could culminate in the resignation of the Interior Minister, Vladimir Kolokoltsev.

"The investigation has just started and after its completion there will be hearings in court," the presidential spokesman noted.

He pointed out that the Interior Ministry was "conducting necessary probes" in connection with Zakharchenko’s case.

On September 10, Moscow’s Presnensky District Court ruled that Zakharchenko should remain in custody until November 8. According to investigators, police seized sums of more than $120 million and Ђ2 million in his apartment. Zakharchenko is charged with violating three articles of the Criminal Code: "Official misconduct" (article 285), "Obstruction of justice and preliminary investigation" (article 294) and "Accepting a bribe" (article 290).