Kyiv man detained for $100,000 fraud scheme posing as having contacts in the National Police

Authorities in the capital uncovered a fraud scheme in which the suspect demanded 100,000 dollars for promising to resolve issues regarding the transfer of a military serviceman, obtaining fictitious medical documents, and departure abroad. The 32-year-old offender convinced clients that he had powerful connections among high-ranking officials in security agencies.

Investigation details

The exposure of the crime was announced by the Acting Head of the National Police of Ukraine, Maksym Tstskiridze. According to the investigation, the suspect's activities were documented starting from August. The investigation involved operatives from the Internal Security Department of the National Police and investigators from the Holosiivskyi Police Department. Procedural supervision was carried out by the Holosiivskyi District Prosecutor's Office of Kyiv.

The man assured potential clients that he had influential acquaintances in state structures. In particular, he claimed to maintain contact with the Deputy Head of the National Police. However, as Tstskiridze emphasised, all these connections were fabricated.

Terms of the fraudulent deal

For transferring a military serviceman from a combat unit to a unit not involved in combat operations, the suspect demanded 50,000 dollars. He demanded the same amount for processing medical documents with false diagnoses, which were to serve as grounds for removing another military-liable person from military registration. He also promised to remove him from the wanted list and ensure unimpeded departure abroad.

Half of the total sum — 50,000 dollars — the man demanded to be paid as an advance. He was detained after a controlled handover of the money.

Seized evidence and criminal liability

During a search, law enforcement officers seized a forged identity card of one of the security agencies with the rank of major and a photograph of the detained man in military uniform. He also used photographs with Ukrainian and foreign politicians and other prominent figures to appear more convincing.

The man was notified of suspicion under Part 3 of Article 369-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine — abuse of influence combined with extortion of improper benefit. The sanction of the article provides for up to eight years of imprisonment with confiscation of property.

The National Police calls on the public to report to the Internal Security Department any cases of money being demanded under the pretext of supposed influential acquaintances in law enforcement agencies or the possibility of making arrangements with police leadership.