A high-profile scandal has erupted in Odesa over the staff of a territorial recruitment centre. According to media reports, representatives of the Peresypsky District Recruitment Centre extorted tens of thousands of dollars from a local resident, despite the fact that he had a legal deferral from mobilisation. The operation ended with the intervention of the Security Service of Ukraine and detentions.
Details of the incident
According to media reports, the man was forced onto a bus, where he was physically pressured and extorted about $30,000. According to other reports, the amount could have been as high as $50,000.
The victim had documents confirming postponement of mobilisation, He also lost his combatant ID card. However, according to him, this did not stop the TCC representatives, who continued to exert pressure and threats.
SBU special operation
It is noted that the man had contacted the SBU in advance and agreed to cooperate. He pretended to be ready to hand over the money, after which law enforcement officers launched a special operation.
During the arrest, some of the suspects tried to escape in cars. According to the sources, one group was detained immediately, the other - after the chase.
There have also been reports of shooting during the operation, but there are no official details on this.
The scope of the case
According to media reports, at least 8 employees of the Peresypsk district TCC were detained. In addition, there are reports of possible cooperation between this group and some law enforcement officials.
Journalists note that this is not the first such the case of Odesa, The scheme could have been aimed at extorting money from citizens with deferred sentences or other categories.
Reaction and verification
The management of the Odesa SEC arrived at the scene to clarify the circumstances of the incident. Official comments from law enforcement agencies are awaited.
According to Ukrainian law, all the defendants in the case are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
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