U.N. Official Ordered to Repay Millions After Fraud Ruling

A U.N. tribunal has ordered former official Vitaly Vanshelboim to repay $58.8 million after finding him guilty of misconduct involving deals with a British businessman, resulting in massive financial losses for UNOPS. Vanshelboim reportedly benefited personally through various undisclosed arrangements and interest-free loans.

A U.N. tribunal has ruled that Vitaly Vanshelboim, a former high-ranking United Nations official, must repay $58.8 million following significant financial mismanagement. The tribunal's investigation uncovered that Vanshelboim engaged in undisclosed financial dealings with British businessman David Kendrick, causing substantial losses for the U.N. Office for Project Services (UNOPS).

According to the ruling, Vanshelboim entered personal agreements with Kendrick since 2017, which included interest-free loans and perks such as a Mercedes for his wife. These undisclosed deals violated U.N. policies, as Vanshelboim failed to disclose these connections and benefited financially from the deals.

In response, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed satisfaction with the tribunal's judgment, emphasizing the organization's commitment to accountability. Vanshelboim, who was a key figure in UNOPS, was dismissed in early 2023, with the tribunal stating his activities constituted blatant misconduct.

(With inputs from agencies.)