The SBU jointly with the State Bureau of Investigations blocked a large-scale extortion scheme by the officials of the international checkpoint “Bachivsk”. The operation was carried out under the legal supervision of the Prosecutor’s Office in Sumy region.

Allegedly, the employees of one of the shifts, in particular customs officers and officials of the State Border Guard Service, extorted money from Ukrainians for going abroad and entering Ukraine. Each minibus with passengers had to pay 2,000 (USD 74) for the unhindered crossing of the state border.

According to intelligence, the offenders received up to UAH 50,000 (USD 1,850) per each shift.

While SBU officers were conducting a special operation and searches in checkpoint, the offenders were trying to get rid of the evidence of unlawful activity, especially the illegal benefit.

The issue of serving a notice of suspicion to the officials is now being decided. The type of detention is being chosen.

In order to bring to justice all persons involved in the illegal activity, the investigation is ongoing within a criminal proceeding initiated for taking a bribe.