Italian authorities have arrested and extradited Russian businessman Ivan Anchevsky, head of the company Melitec, to Estonia. Anchevsky is suspected of illegally transporting strategic cargo and violating sanctions imposed against Russia. This significant event unfolded as he was taken to Tallinn after being detained under an extradition order requested by the Estonian government.
According to reports by Eesti Ekspress, Anchevsky was brought to Estonian capital at the end of January 2023. Following his arrival, he was placed under arrest, and the Estonian prosecution has initiated criminal proceedings against him. The allegations suggest serious breaches of international law related to the sanctions regime.
The prosecution claims Anchevsky's company, Melitec, ordered high-frequency testing equipment from Switzerland. This equipment is used for assessing the strength of metals and other materials. The cargo was supposedly processed through two Estonian firms: one handled the orders and the other arranged the transportation of these goods to Russia. Kauri Sinkevicius, spokesperson for the Estonian prosecutor's office, elaborated on the case, stating, "According to suspicions, orders were officially arranged through Estonian commercial enterprises and, using the services of another Estonian company, the transportation of goods was arranged through Estonia and third countries for subsequent delivery of goods to Russia."
This incident raises concerns about the actions of Melitec, identified as one of the largest suppliers of research equipment for Russia's industrial and research sectors. The company's activities have come under scrutiny for potentially executing illegal transactions through its former subsidiary, Melytec Europe OÜ, which was established in Tallinn back in 2015. Reports indicate Anchevsky transferred ownership of this subsidiary to himself following the onset of the Ukraine conflict.
The Estonian authorities have indicated not only are they focusing on Anchevsky, but also on the two Estonian companies involved and their respective board members. Although these entities remain unnamed, it has been asserted by prosecution officials during the investigation phase, they possess significant knowledge of the transactions. Evidence suggests Anchevsky played an active role as he was part of the executive board of one of these companies.
Legal representatives for Anchevsky, including his lawyer Stella Weber, had previously attempted to secure bail for their client. The request was declined by the district court, which concluded there was a tangible risk of Anchevsky fleeing the country if released.
This situation is part of broader efforts by European nations to enforce sanctions against Russia following its continued military actions and violations of international agreements. Extraditing business figures like Anchevsky sends a message about the international community’s commitment to upholding sanctions and deterring illegal commerce.
It is anticipated this case could have long-lasting effects not just on Anchevsky and his associated companies, but also on Russian businesses operating under similar conditions and potentially violating international sanctions.
Melitec’s prominent role as a supplier, particularly its dealings prior to the sanctions, will likely keep the spotlight on the methods used by Russian firms to circumvent international laws and regulations. The case serves as a reminder of the delicate and increasingly complex interactions between business operations and political actions on the global stage.