Marina Kovtun
The Governor of the Murmansk region Marina Kovtun said that he would not resign, despite pressure from law enforcement agencies in connection with a criminal case against the former Deputy head of the region Igor Babenko. It is reported RIA Novosti on Monday, October 23.
“I have to say that as the head of the region, the highest official in General are experiencing serious pressure from law enforcement agencies. In particular, it is expressed in the massive queries, audits and other acts of intimidation”, — said Kovtun.
Previously, the October court of Murmansk decided to detain former Deputy Governor Babenko, who was charged with fraud on a large scale. According to investigators, he created the criminal scheme leading to the conclusion of contracts between the Department for ensuring activities of the government and fictitious contractors. In the result the budget was cashed and used by participants of the criminal scheme, at its discretion, the Agency says.
Igor Babenko took the position of Deputy Governor of the Murmansk region in 2014. Prior to this, the official held the post of chief of staff of the regional government. On 29 September he wrote the application on dismissal at own will. In early October, retired chief of staff of the regional government Svetlana Overachieve.