In Chernihiv, the SSU shut down a large-scale scheme of evading mobilization and illegal departure of conscription-aged men abroad.

As a result of the operation, the SSU detained the former head of a local military medical commission.

For bribes, the ex-official promised to remove persons liable for military service from the register on the basis of fake certificates of ‘unfitness’ for service.

The draft evaders then used these documents to illegally leave Ukraine.

To operate the scheme, the perpetrator acted jointly with several officials of regional military medical commissions and medical institutions.

The SSU documented the suspect’s crimes and detained him in his apartment after he received another bribe.

During the searches, the SSU seized almost USD 1 million and over EUR 22,000. Documents for several apartments and land plots have been found, and the investigators have already requested a seizure of these properties.

The detainee is suspected under the following Articles of the CCU:

• 27.5, 368.3 (acceptance of an offer, promise or receipt of an unlawful benefit by an official);
• 114-1.1 (obstruction of lawful activities of the AFU and other military formations);
• 332.3 (illegal transfer of persons across Ukraine’s state border).

The suspect is in custody without the right to be released on bail. The investigation is ongoing. The individuals involved in the scheme face up to 10 years in prison with confiscation of property.

The operation was carried out by the SSU Chernihiv Office under the procedural supervision of Chernihiv Specialized Defence Prosecutor’s Office.