Lukashenko reveals details of criminal case against multiple Belarusian medics

Multiple Belarusian orthopedic surgeons have been charged with a number of crimes and have been arrested. The criminal case was discussed during the government conference hosted by Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko on 18 April, BelTA has learned. Healthcare Minister Dmitry Pinevich, Prosecutor General Andrei Shved, and Chairman of the State Security Committee (KGB) Ivan Tertel came to deliver their reports to the head of state. Aleksandr Lukashenko said: “I know the progress of this operation very well.

I kept an eye on it. It didn't start today or yesterday. I'd warned the healthcare minister about it.

But as of today 35 people [have been arrested]. And I am convinced that more people should be arrested together with them. Nobody is going to dissuade me from it.

They didn't simply hint to people in need of surgeries what imported orthopedic replacement parts they need but took considerable bribes from foreigners. Sums as large as €300,000, €650,000 were found after searching some of their houses.” When the healthcare minister asked what would happen to the arrested medics, Aleksandr Lukashenko invited Dmitry Pinevich to go to the pre-trial detention center and talk to each of them. The head of state said: “Are you telling me that you've personally approached every one of them? I'd like to decide on what we are going to do with these people in the presence of our key law enforcer – the prosecutor general.

I know you wanted to bail them out. Not pardon them but vouch for them after they compensate for the huge damage the state has incurred. Send them to work in some organization at your discretion.