The Security Service of Ukraine, together with the State Bureau of Investigations, has dismantled a scheme of embezzling budget funds in the State Special Transport Service. As a result of the operation, the law enforcement uncovered officials who, together with accomplices, embezzled over UAH 64 million (USD 1.5 mln) intended for the purchase of trucks for the military.

The investigation established that the head of one of the logistics departments of the SSTS Administration was involved in the scheme. He involved several officials from the military unit that was the customer for the vehicles, as well as representatives of an affiliated commercial entity.

According to the investigation, in the autumn of 2024 the SSTS official ensured that a commercial enterprise under his control ‘won’ the tender.

The company ‘won’ the tender despite the fact that its bid was more than 64 million Hryvnias more expensive than those of other bidders.

As a result of the searches, the law enforcement have seized documents, mobile phones, seals and other evidence confirming unlawful activities. Foreign currency cash equivalent to UAH 105 million was also found. Its origin is being investigated.

The participants in the scheme have been notified of suspicion under Articles 27.5 and 426-1.5 of the CCU (abuse of office, under martial law, resulting in serious consequences, and aiding and abetting).

The investigation is ongoing to establish all the circumstances of the crime and bring those involved to justice.

The operation was carried out by the SSU Lviv Office in cooperation with employees of the State Bureau of Investigation under the procedural supervision of the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for the Western Region.