The SBU CI documented a scheme of illegal issuance of social benefits to the militants of the so-called “DNR" from the State Budget of Ukraine, set up by a group of people.

Allegedly, the suspects issued passports of citizens of Ukraine and documents for social benefits to the residents of the temporarily occupied territory of Donetsk region, for money. They personally received the documents and forwarded them across the contact line. The SBU established that IAF members of DNR terrorist organization were among the “clients”.

On July 29, 2020, the law enforcement detained three suspects in Bakhmut city, Donetsk region, on their attempt to withdraw cash for further movement to the temporarily occupied territory.

During the searches of the suspects' residences and temporary stays, the law enforcement seized cash, bank cards and documents that were the basis for obtaining money in Ukrainian banking institutions, including for those involved in illegal armed formations. The law enforcement also seized another documents proving the illegal mechanism of social benefits payment to the representatives of illegal armed groups from the state budget of Ukraine.

The suspects, among which was an employee of a state bank, were served notices of suspicion of committing crimes under Part 1 of Art. 258-3, part 2 of Art. 364, part 2 of Art. 366 of the Criminal code of Ukraine.

The investigation is ongoing to identify and prosecute other persons possibly involved in illegal activities.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of the Prosecutor's Office of Vinnytsia region.