The Security Service of Ukraine has uncovered two founders of a private company in Kyiv who supplied wholesale batches of low-quality military uniforms to the National Guard units.

During March-October 2023, the firm delivered 30,000 clothing items for Ukrainian defenders worth a total of UAH 28.7 mln (USD 673,000).

The SSU-initiated examination showed that the military uniforms purchased with state funds were sewn using fittings that did not meet the technical specifications.

In particular, the materials used are of a lower wear resistance class, which means that the soldier will not be able to securely attach protective armour and weapons with ammunition to such clothing. This can pose a real threat to the lives and health of Ukrainian soldiers on the front line.

According to the investigation, the perpetrators deliberately ‘saved’ on quality materials in order to buy cheaper components and make more profit.

During the searches of the suspects’ homes, the SSU found commercial documents and a hard drive with evidence of the fraud.

The SSU has served both founders of the company suspicion notices under Article 28.2, 191.5 of the CCU (embezzlement of property by abuse of office, committed on a particularly large scale, upon prior conspiracy, by a group, under martial law).

The suspects face up to 12 years in prison with confiscation of property. The investigation is ongoing.

The operation was carried out under the procedural supervision of the Specialized Defence Prosecutor’s Office of the Central Region.