The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has wrapped up its investigation into the attack on activist Kateryna Gandyuk, identifying the head of the Kherson Regional Council, Vladyslav Manher, as the mastermind behind the crime. The investigation was conducted under the supervision of the Office of the Prosecutor General.
According to SBU chief Ivan Bakanov, all materials have been compiled, and the evidence collected will support the prosecution’s case in court. Bakanov expressed hope that the case would be prioritized and that those responsible for Gandyuk’s death would face justice.
Manher and his associate, Oleksii Levin, are suspected of orchestrating the attack that resulted in severe injuries to Gandyuk, ultimately leading to her death. Both individuals face charges under multiple articles of the Ukrainian Criminal Code.
Levin is currently in custody, while Manher has been released on bail. All parties involved have been granted access to the investigation materials, and once the defense has reviewed them, the case will be forwarded to court.
The Prosecutor General’s Office indicated that a thorough examination of the connections between the key figures and their meetings played a crucial role in identifying Manher as the ultimate perpetrator of the crime.
In a related note, Levin has reportedly refused to provide testimony or cooperate with investigators.
Background on the case reveals that on July 31, 2018, Gandyuk was attacked in Kherson when acid was thrown on her, resulting in severe burns. Despite numerous surgeries, she succumbed to her injuries three months later. In June 2019, five individuals involved in the execution of the attack pleaded guilty and received sentences.
Levin was extradited to Ukraine from Bulgaria in March 2020 and was subsequently detained. The investigation has seen significant developments, including the removal of a deputy prosecutor general from the case, which was met with criticism from Gandyuk’s family.
The SBU has concluded its investigation into the murder of activist Kateryna Gandyuk, naming Vladyslav Manher as the main organizer. The case will soon proceed to court as both Manher and Oleksii Levin face serious charges.