(Reuters) – According to Ukrainian investigative journalism outlet bihus.info, a branch of the domestic security service SBU has been illegally surveilling its journalists. The outlet regularly publishes investigative stories about officials and wealthy private individuals. They claimed that an SBU unit had 30 people spying on its journalists during a corporate event at a hotel in December. They also criticized the SBU for considering journalists as a threat to national security during wartime.
In response to the allegations, the SBU stated that it upholds the principles of a free press as part of its mission to defend national interests. They also launched a criminal investigation into the use of spy technology. Additionally, the head of the Department of the Defence of National Statehood, a unit within the SBU, was dismissed after these allegations were made public last month.
The SBU claimed that some members of the media outlet were identified as customers of drug dealers in a statement on Telegram. Last month, a video surfaced online showing bihus.info members at the December event using recreational drugs and discussing the procurement of illegal substances such as cannabis and MDMA. Bihus.info acknowledged the video’s authenticity, condemning the drug use and the surveillance of its employees.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced an investigation into the surveillance and denounced any attempts to pressure journalists. The SBU released a statement asserting its commitment to a free press and an ongoing criminal investigation into the matter. It is essential for the press to operate freely and without fear of undue surveillance or interference from government agencies.
The SBU’s response to the allegations was met with criticism. The investigation into the illegal surveillance is ongoing, and it is crucial for the SBU to address the concerns raised by bihus.info. The Ukrainian government must ensure that journalists can carry out their work without fear of surveillance or intimidation.
It is imperative for the SBU to respect press freedom and investigate any violations of journalists’ rights. The SBU must work to restore the trust of the public and the journalistic community. The Ukrainian government should take further steps to protect the rights of journalists and uphold the principles of free speech and a free press.
(Reporting by Ron Popeski and Nick Starkov; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
