The SSU and the State Bureau of Investigations have shut down a corruption scheme at Ivano-Frankivsk customs. The head of one of the key customs directorates was detained as a result of the operation.

According to the investigation, the official organized a criminal scheme to get bribes from importing companies.

For the money, he promised the entrepreneurs not to create artificial obstacles during customs clearance of their goods.

To operate the scheme, the officer engaged several customs brokers from Ivano-Frankivsk and Zakarpattia Customs.

One of them was involved as an intermediary for handing over bribes from the businesses.

The SSU documented 4 episodes when the suspects received illegal benefits.

The organizer and the intermediary were apprehended ‘red-handed’ after getting another bribe.

The detained individuals will be notified of suspicion under Article 368.3 of the CCU (acceptance of an offer, promise or receipt of an unlawful benefit by an official).

The suspects face up to 10 years in prison with confiscation of property.

Searches are ongoing at their offices and homes. The investigation is underway.

The operation was carried out under the procedural supervision of the Prosecutor General’s Office and with the assistance of the State Customs Service.

According to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of a crime and may not be subjected to criminal punishment until their guilt is proven in line with the procedure defined by law and established by a relevant court’s verdict.