Yanukovych signs into law extension of Security Service’s powers
07.01.2012
Among other extended powers, the SBU is now responsible for investigating “mass disturbances” and crimes falling under "abuse of power"
On 5 January 2012 the President signed into law Amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code which broadens the powers of the Security Service [SBU]. The Law was passed by the Verkhovna Rada on 20 December.
The SBU is now responsible for investigating “mass disturbances” (the crime set out in Article 294 of the Criminal Code.
The law also stipulates that if, when investigating any crime falling within the SBU’s jurisdiction, crimes linked with official activities, as well as bribe-taking, are alleged to have been committed by the person under investigation, or another person, if they are believed to be linked with the crimes, allegedly carried out by the person under investigation, they are investigated by the SBU investigators.