Russian 8.8-billion-rouble pension fraud case returned to investigators
Kommersant reports that prosecutors withheld approval of the indictment over serious procedural defects. The defendants deny the allegations.
Russian newspaper Kommersant reported on 28 October that an investigation into the alleged diversion of 8.8 billion roubles from private pension funds requires further work. Prosecutors reportedly identified serious procedural defects in the indictment and returned the case to Moscow police. Former Sistema chief Yevgeny Novitsky is among the defendants.
According to the newspaper, all those involved are now outside pre-trial detention or house arrest. Investigators allege that the group diverted money from six funds between 2014 and 2018 by buying illiquid bonds. All defendants denied guilt. Russia’s deposit insurance agency has filed a civil claim for the alleged losses. Defence lawyers declined to discuss progress with the newspaper.









































