The SSU Counterintelligence has dismantled another large-scale scheme to evade mobilization. As a result of the operations in Kyiv and Vinnytsia, perpetrators have been detained for making money by fictitiously employing conscripts in non-existent educational institutions, which gave them the right to deferral from mobilization.

The investigation established that the organizers of the scheme had registered eight private lyceums, for which they received licenses to conduct educational activities from Kyiv City State Administration.

The schools existed only ‘on paper’, had no physical addresses, and did not actually conduct any educational activities.

The criminal scheme consisted of the organizers arranging for draft evaders from all over Ukraine to be employed as ‘teachers’ at these non-existent high schools, which guaranteed them exemption from conscription.

The cost of such a ‘service’ was USD 3,000. In addition, ‘clients’ paid almost UAH 20,000 per month, part of which went into the organizers’ pockets, while the rest was given to the bogus directors of non-existent schools as ‘salaries’.

It has been documented that over 200 men tried to evade mobilization in this way.

The SSU established that the organizer of the scheme used the proceeds to purchase a premium car for UAH 6 mln and elite apartments in downtown Kyiv.

Telephones, seals, documentation, and notes with evidence of crimes were found during the searches of the suspects’ homes.

The organizer, his accountant, and one of the fake ‘directors’ have been detained. SSU investigators notified them and two other accomplices of suspicion under Articles 28.2 and 114-1.1 of the CCU (obstruction of lawful activities of the AFU, committed by a group, upon prior conspiracy).

The suspects face up to 8 years in prison. The investigation is ongoing.

The operational and investigative activities were carried out under the procedural supervision of the Prosecutor General’s Office.