The Security Service of Ukraine has exposed a corruption scheme in the 169th training center “Desna”, where military personnel systematically stole fuel and lubricants. This fuel was supposed to be used for the training of mobilized and conscripts, but a significant part of it did not reach military equipment. Documents showed that fuel was provided in accordance with the norms, but in fact the combat vehicles remained stationary in the park.
According to the investigation, the organizer of the criminal scheme was the deputy head of logistics at the training center. He created a system by which fuel was artificially accumulated, written off using forged documents, and then sold to private companies. The scheme involved commanders of military units, heads of armored, automobile, and technical services, company and platoon commanders, as well as drivers who transported the stolen fuel.
Fuel theft has caused serious damage to Ukraine's defense capability. Due to the lack of diesel, military equipment was not used for its intended purpose, and those mobilized did not receive proper training. In wartime, such crimes directly affect the army's combat capability, because without sufficient fuel, training maneuvers and combat training are impossible.
The colonel who led the scheme coordinated all actions and controlled the distribution of funds. His subordinates were engaged in fictitious paperwork, organized the transportation of fuel to commercial structures and ensured the “correct” write-off. The sale of the stolen diesel was carried out through intermediaries, whose names are not yet disclosed by the investigation.
The SBU has opened criminal proceedings under Article 410 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine – theft, appropriation or embezzlement of military property. If the court proves the guilt of the defendants, they face up to 12 years in prison. Given the scale of the thefts, the case may be transferred to the High Anti-Corruption Court, because corruption in military structures during wartime is equated with especially serious crimes.
The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officers are identifying the individuals who may have been involved in this criminal activity. If the information about the military's cooperation with private business is confirmed, the investigation will reach a new level. Ukrainian society is waiting for answers as to how it happened that during active hostilities, fuel that was supposed to help our defenders became an object of sale.
