Medical workers in Ukraine charged in $20K (CAD 27K) mobilization scheme
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) uncovered a 29-member criminal group that profited from assisting individuals in avoiding military mobilization. Among those detained were medical workers. The cost of their services reached up to $20,000 (approximately 27,500 Canadian dollars).
The SBU and police conducted an operation in Rivne, a city in western Ukraine, which resulted in dismantling the criminal group. The illegal activities were organized by the head of a local real estate agency and two of her associates. Additionally, 26 medical workers, including officials from medical and social expert commissions at the regional centre, were involved in the scheme.
In exchange for money, the accused helped those avoiding conscription by providing forged documents indicating the presence of severe heart or nervous system conditions. The cost of such "services" ranged from $15,000 (CAD 20,500) to $20,000 (CAD 27,500) per client, reports the SBU.
Ukraine. They paid to avoid military service
To execute their criminal plan, the accused completely falsified medical documentation for individuals avoiding conscription, mainly focusing on false information about their hospitalization.
Based on these manipulated documents, members of medical commissions drafted conclusions stating the alleged inability of "patients" to undergo military service. Through the coordinated activities of the accused, many individuals were able to avoid mobilization without obstruction.
To find potential clients, the organizers used established contacts of the real estate agency. Profits were shared among all criminals, reports the Security Service of Ukraine.
Ukraine. They helped avoid mobilization. They face 5 years in prison
During the searches, investigators discovered over 14 million hryvnias (over 460,000 Canadian dollars) obtained illegally. In addition, fake medical reports, conscription protocols, cell phones, and computer equipment containing evidence of the crime were confiscated.
The detainees have been charged with abuse of influence, which may result in a penalty of up to 5 years of imprisonment. The investigation aims to hold all individuals involved in this corrupt scheme accountable. The Security Service of Ukraine carried out the operation in the Rivne region in collaboration with the national police and under the supervision of the regional prosecutor's office.
