The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has said that the detention of former justice minister Olena Lukash was the result of a large-scale SBU operation; and law enforcement authorities will probe her possible involvement in a number of crimes, including those related to the events on Maidan, the dictatorial laws, and misappropriation of public funds.

"Today, as a result of investigative actions, which involved considerable forces of the SBU former Justice Minister Olena Lukash who was hiding from justice, has been detained," spokesperson for the SBU Olena Hitlianska said at a briefing in Kyiv on Thursday.

"All of you remember her sharp statements, her speeches during the darkest days of the Maidan events. You remember the decisions which she endorsed, including the laws passed on January 16. I think that all this will be the subject of investigation of law enforcement agencies," she added.