The SSU Counterintelligence disrupted three international criminal groups involved in illegal transfer of Ukrainians abroad.

The groups consisted of 11 people, including four foreigners. Currently, 10 criminals have been detained, while another - a citizen of a European country - is hiding outside Ukraine.

During a special operation, one of the suspects attacked an SSU officer with a knife, trying to escape from law enforcement. However, counterintelligence officers disarmed and detained him.

The SSU found that each of the groups offered certain draft evasion schemes. In particular, the offenders made counterfeit documents for travelling abroad, including fake letters for foreign business trips of drivers.

To implement this scheme, the criminals provided their clients with vehicles that were allegedly for the transportation of humanitarian goods.

According to another ‘scenario’, the offenders transported the evaders to the border area and then smuggled them into the neighboring country through forest trails.

The cost of such ‘services’ ranged from USD 3,500. The amount could increase and depended on the urgency of the ‘departure’ and the time for its ‘preparation’.

Based on the evidence collected, all detainees have been served notices of suspicion under Articles of 332.3 the CCU (illegal transfer of persons across Ukraine’s state border).

In addition, the decision is pending regarding illegal actions of the foreigner who resisted law enforcement.

The SSU also seized and transferred to the needs of the Defense Forces 7 vehicles used by the offenders in their criminal activities.

The operation was carried out jointly with the National Police and State Border Guard Service of Ukraine under the supervision of the Prosecutor’s Office.