In a significant legal development, Moscow’s Khamovnichesky Court ruled that Larisa Markus, who once led Vneshprombank (VPB) before its 2016 collapse, must serve 13 years in prison for the misappropriation of 156 billion rubles. The verdict was reported by RIA News and reflects a long-running investigation into the bank’s collapse and the actions of its executives.
The case outlines a complex scheme involving Georgy Bedzhamov, the bank’s owner, and Markus. Investigators contend that the pair formed a criminal group in 2009 and that Markus extended non-refundable loans to accounts tied to group members, effectively moving funds for the benefit of the network. This pattern of activity is described as the core mechanism behind the bank’s losses and the alleged enrichment of those involved.
Bedzhamov remains at large in London, where the proceedings against him are continued in absentia. The London High Court, in the latter half of October 2022, acknowledged Bedzhamov’s bankruptcy in the UK and indicated a reluctance to comply with an appeal brought by Markus’s side. The legal process illustrates the cross-border dimension of the case and the challenges of pursuing individuals who relocate internationally to avoid prosecution.
Earlier, the Arbitration Court of the Moscow Region found responsibility among three former VPB leaders, including Markus, for the bank’s mounting debts, which have since surpassed 215 billion rubles. This judgment aligns with ongoing efforts to assign accountability for the institution’s rapid decline and the consequences faced by creditors and insured depositors.
In June 2021, First Deputy Chairman of the Deposit Insurance Agency (DIA), Andrey Melnikov, commented on the estate status of Bedzhamov and Markus, noting that both had substantial assets under scrutiny. At that time, investigators reported asset values around 100 million dollars, highlighting the scale of potential recovery attempts amid the case. The disclosures emphasize how authorities track wealth linked to corporate mismanagement and how asset declarations factor into prosecutions and restitution.
Beyond the specific events around VPB, broader public statements indicate persistent concerns within Russia about the health of large banking institutions and the oversight mechanisms that regulate commissions and fees charged to developers and other market participants. The public discourse reflects an ongoing inquiry into the balance between regulatory supervision and the profitability of major financial players, with investigations often touching on governance, risk management, and consumer protection. The dialogue underscores a wider interest in ensuring integrity within the banking sector and in outlining how accountability is pursued when allegations of large-scale mismanagement arise.