The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) uncovered a corruption scheme that allowed men abroad to issue foreign passports without having to register for military service in Ukraine. This was reported by the SBU press service.
The head of the regional department of the migration service, two of his subordinates, as well as an official of the regional center for the provision of administrative services were detained. According to law enforcement officers, this scheme operated on the territory of Odesa region.
According to the investigation, the officials used their personal fingerprints and photos, which were sent remotely, to issue passports. Ready documents were transferred through intermediaries. The cost of this "service" ranged from 500 to 2,500 US dollars.
Thus, the men could avoid returning to Ukraine and not register for the military. This created serious problems for military commitments and undermined national security.
The SBU reported that all already issued documents will be annulled. Law enforcement officers are continuing their investigation to identify all persons involved in this illegal activity.
