The SSU, together with the Prosecutor General’s Office, has dismantled a large-scale corruption scheme at the Tysa Customs Post of Zakarpattia Customs.

Five officials of Chop-Zahony checkpoint have formed a criminal group and imposed a ‘tribute’ on drivers of cross-border transport. As a result of the operation, all five of them have been detained.

The perpetrators extorted up to EUR 1,500 from each bus. For the bribes, the officials promised carriers not to create artificial obstacles during customs clearance of foreign goods imported to Ukraine.

Per shift, up to 50 buses ‘went through’ the scheme.

In case of refusal to pay the money, the customs officers threatened to delay the procedures and confiscate the cargo.

The SSU documented several episodes of the suspects extorting money from carriers.

During the searches, the investigators found large amounts of cash and documents proving the unlawful activity.

Based on the evidence, five detainees were notified of suspicion under Article 28.3 and Article 368.3 of the CCU (obtaining an unlawful benefit by an official, committed by an organized group), another two individuals involved – under Article 368.3 of the CCU (obtaining an unlawful benefit by an official).

The investigation is underway.

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