In a continuing crackdown on corruption within its ranks, Russia has arrested General Vadim Shamarin, the deputy chief of the General Staff of the Russian Army, on suspicion of bribery—a charge that carries up to 15 years in prison.
This development was reported by the Russian newspaper Kommersant, which also noted that Shamarin's house was searched as part of the investigation.
"On May 22, the court selected as a measure of restraint to detain Shamarin for two months," the state-run TASS news agency reported, citing the court.
Critics and opposition figures have for years said Russia's military is riddled with corruption, though its leaders have rarely faced any kind of serious probe or retribution.
Series of Arrests
General Shamarin is the fourth high-ranking military officer to be arrested since April. Earlier arrests include:
Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov, who faced bribery charges in April.
Lieutenant General Yuri Kuznetskov, also arrested on similar charges.
Major General Ivan Popov, whose arrest further highlighted the extent of the anti-corruption measures within the Russian military.
These arrests come amidst leadership changes within the Russian defense establishment. This month, President Vladimir Putin replaced long-serving Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu with former Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov.
The move is seen as part of a broader strategy to address corruption and inefficiency within the military.
