The SSU has eliminated two corruption schemes at Volyn Customs. The illicit schemes had caused losses to the state budget.

A unit chief and the chief inspector arranged regular extortions from Ukrainian businesses.

The SSU documented several episodes of the unlawful activity by both suspects and detained them ‘red-handed’ after they received an illegal benefit.

For the bribes, the head of unit promised importers not to create bureaucratic obstacles during customs clearance of their goods. The fee for such ‘service’ was USD 200 per a vehicle with imported goods.

At the same time, the chief customs inspector, contrary to the requirements, did not increase the customs value of the imported merchandize for the entrepreneurs. However, the official demanded half of the ‘saved’ money for this.

Based on the evidence collected, SSU investigators notified the corrupt officials of suspicion under Article 368.3 of the CCU (acceptance of an offer, promise or receipt of an unlawful benefit by an official).

The investigation is ongoing. The offenders are facing up to 10 years in prison with confiscation of property.

The SSU Office in Volyn Region carried out the operation under the procedural supervision of the Prosecutor General’s Office.