Sanctions Against Former IBOX Bank Head: What Is Known About the Alyona Shevtsova Case
Introduction of Sanctions
On April 12, 2025, the President of Ukraine approved the decision of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) to impose personal sanctions against the former Chair of the Supervisory Board of IBOX Bank, Alyona Shevtsova. According to Decree No. 231/2025, the document came into force upon publication.
Who Was Sanctioned
In addition to Shevtsova, the sanctions list includes:
- Serhiy Arbuzov — former Head of the National Bank of Ukraine;
- Serhiy Klyuyev — former Member of Parliament;
- Viktor Polishchuk — businessman.
What Measures Were Imposed
The sanctions are set for 10 years and include:
- Asset freezing;
- Blocking of financial transactions;
- Ban on cross-border capital movement.
Ukraine also called on the EU, the US, and other countries to support the restrictions.
Reasons for the Sanctions
The authorities suspect Shevtsova of:
- organizing an illegal gambling business;
- money laundering through shell companies;
- legalizing criminal proceeds.
Shevtsova previously became known as the founder of the payment system Leogaming Pay, which serviced online gaming. In 2017, she took a leadership role at IBOX Bank. After gambling was legalized in Ukraine in 2020, the bank began cooperating with licensed casinos.
Violations and Consequences
- In 2021, Leogaming was fined for failing to provide accurate data on transactions.
- In 2023, the National Bank revoked IBOX Bank’s license due to numerous violations, including involvement in sports poker tournaments.
Potential Violations in Sanctions Procedure
Ukrainian journalist Serhiy Lyamets claims that the sanctions may have been imposed in violation of legal procedures. According to his information, the decision was not approved by the interdepartmental working group responsible for sanctions policy.