The Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation has added an article on official forgery to the indictment filed against former commander of the 58th Army, General Ivan Popov. The disclosure came via TASS and underscores a widening probe into alleged misconduct at the highest levels of military leadership.
According to investigators, Popov faces charges under two provisions of the Criminal Code: especially large-scale fraud and official fraud. The latter is alleged to have caused a serious violation of the rights and legitimate interests of citizens, organizations, or the overall interests of society and the state. An official from the Investigative Committee clarified the scope of the accusations, signaling that the case hinges on the transformation of alleged acts into formal offenses that impact multiple stakeholders.
Popov has reportedly declined to admit guilt. The development follows a period in which he provided statements about possible accomplices during the inquiry, a move that has kept observers focused on the evolving dynamics of the case and on the evidence presented by those involved in the investigation.
Earlier reports indicated that on May 21, Ivan Popov was detained in connection with suspicions that metal structures intended for frontline use were improperly diverted. The case has since broadened to include several high-ranking defense officials: a former Deputy Minister of Defense and the head of the Ministry’s Main Personnel Department were taken into custody on charges of bribery. On May 23, attention shifted to the arrest of the head of the RF Armed Forces Main Communications Department, General Vadim Shamarin, who faces parallel accusations tied to corruption in procurement and service operations.
The matter has drawn a response from Kremlin spokespeople who have reiterated that corruption action remains a priority for the Russian defense establishment. A representative for the Kremlin has noted ongoing efforts to enhance oversight and accountability within military structures, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies are pursuing the facts wherever they lead.
In recent public statements, Popov has described a situation shaped by debt and credit, framing his financial circumstances as part of a broader context rather than a confession of wrongdoing. The case illustrates the tension between strategic military needs and the vigilance of investigative bodies tasked with upholding the integrity of the armed forces and safeguarding public trust in national defense institutions.