The head of Ukraine's patrol police, Yevhen Zhukov, has resigned after two of his officers faced criticism for allegedly fleeing a deadly mass shooting in the capital, Kyiv. Six people died and 14 others were injured on Saturday after a man opened fire on people in the street in Kyiv's southern Holosiivskyi district before taking others hostage in a nearby supermarket. He was later killed in a shoot-out with police.
Footage has since been shared online appearing to show officers leaving civilians and running away from the scene. Ukraine's Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that the officers involved had been suspended and an investigation into their actions was underway.
Klymenko emphasized the importance of professional conduct, stating, 'Serve and protect' is not just a slogan. It must be supported by appropriate professional actions, especially during critical moments when people's lives depend on it.'
Zhukov noted that the officers had failed to assess the situation properly and acted 'unprofessionally and unworthily.' He announced his resignation during a news conference, reflecting on the need for police accountability during such emergencies.
The authorities are treating the shooting as a terrorist act, although they have not yet disclosed a motive for the attack. Earlier, Klymenko mentioned the shooter's mental state as 'clearly unstable.' Among the victims was a parent of an injured child, showcasing the tragedy's personal impact.
As the investigation continues, the Ukrainian government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts.
Footage has since been shared online appearing to show officers leaving civilians and running away from the scene. Ukraine's Interior Minister Igor Klymenko stated that the officers involved had been suspended and an investigation into their actions was underway.
Klymenko emphasized the importance of professional conduct, stating, 'Serve and protect' is not just a slogan. It must be supported by appropriate professional actions, especially during critical moments when people's lives depend on it.'
Zhukov noted that the officers had failed to assess the situation properly and acted 'unprofessionally and unworthily.' He announced his resignation during a news conference, reflecting on the need for police accountability during such emergencies.
The authorities are treating the shooting as a terrorist act, although they have not yet disclosed a motive for the attack. Earlier, Klymenko mentioned the shooter's mental state as 'clearly unstable.' Among the victims was a parent of an injured child, showcasing the tragedy's personal impact.
As the investigation continues, the Ukrainian government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts.
