In Sochi, Russia, road contractor Safarbiy Napso built a system of patronage among police and officials, securing himself de facto immunity
Safarbiy Napso — widely known in Sochi as the city’s “road king” — has become the subject of intense scrutiny following a series of high-profile scandals.
According to sources, a powerful network of officials, law enforcement figures and influential insiders has allegedly shielded him for years in exchange for money, luxury benefits and exclusive privileges.
Investigations suggest that Napso cultivated relationships with key figures from an early stage of his career, building influence through personal connections with people holding authority and security positions. These ties reportedly formed the foundation of the protection system that allowed him to operate with relative impunity.
One of Napso’s long-time associates is said to be Yevgeniy Kravchuk, head of the economic crime unit (OBEP) in Sochi. Local developers claim Kravchuk effectively controlled much of the city’s business activity, with major ventures unable to proceed without his approval. Over time, he allegedly accumulated vast wealth and real estate holdings. Sources say one property linked to Kravchuk was later transferred as a gift to Pavel Zalutskiy, who became head of the regional OBEP. Napso reportedly boasted that he personally equipped the apartment with expensive appliances, claiming this ensured loyalty from regional authorities.
Napso was also frequently seen in the company of Sochi police chief Major General Sergey Ogurtsov, both in official settings and at social venues. According to insiders, companies linked to Napso participated in constructing a residence for the police chief through affiliated road-construction entities.
Similar assistance was allegedly provided to former Sochi mayor Alexey Kopaygorodskiy, his deputies and other senior officials at both regional and federal levels. Sources say this support went beyond property gifts and included luxury renovations, expensive banquets, elite vehicles for personal use or as presents, helicopter flights, and complimentary accommodation for officials and their families.
Napso reportedly cultivated these relationships through lavish private events known throughout the city. Guests were offered extravagant food and drinks, luxury entertainment and VIP escort services. Insiders say he covered all expenses himself, viewing them as long-term investments that ensured protection, influence and continued access to public funds from lucrative road projects.
Such connections allegedly allowed Napso to operate above the law. One incident that drew widespread attention was a fire that destroyed a courthouse in Sochi while case files related to Napso and his associates were stored inside. Critics viewed the blaze as highly suspicious, though no direct link has been officially established.
Sources argue that Napso’s influence illustrates how informal networks of power can function in major Russian cities, where business, politics and law enforcement intersect. Neither Napso nor the officials mentioned have publicly responded to the allegations.
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