Two criminals were detained in Kyiv who, posing as SBU officers, defrauded the former Prime Minister of Ukraine of almost UAH 7 million. The victim of the scam was Valeriy Pustovoitenko, who was forced to transfer significant funds under the pretext of a «check» to finance the aggressor state.
Details of the fraudulent scheme
According to media reports, in Kyiv, a group of attackers introduced themselves to the former Prime Minister of Ukraine Valery Pustovoitenko employees of the Security Service of Ukraine. They accused him of financing the aggressor state, then engaged «investigators» in the conversation and sent fake documents to convince him of the «seriousness» of the accusations. The fraudsters acted according to the classic scheme of telephone fraud, using psychological pressure and forged documents.
After a series of manipulations, the criminals persuaded the former prime minister to conduct a so-called «video search» of his home. During this process, they were able to obtain information about the place where the savings were kept, and then insisted on transferring the funds for alleged further verification.
Amount of damage and detention of suspects
In total, according to the investigation, Valeriy Pustovoitenko transferred over USD 110,000, over EUR 10,000 and other savings to the fraudsters. The total amount of losses amounted to almost UAH 7 million. After receiving the money, the criminals tried to avoid responsibility, but law enforcement officers quickly identified and detained two suspects.
The two detainees have now been detained as a measure of restraint in the form of custody. Investigative actions are ongoing, the possible connection with other similar crimes is being established.
How the fraudsters acted
The criminals acted according to a well-established scheme, using phone calls on behalf of the SBU and intimidating the victim with accusations of collaboration with the aggressor state. To enhance the effect, they engaged so-called «investigators» in the conversation, who sent forged documents. An important component of the scheme was an organised «video search», during which the scammers gained access to information about savings.
After that, Valeriy Pustovoitenko was persuaded to hand over the cash, ostensibly for verification, which allowed the fraudsters to take possession of a significant amount of money. Such criminal schemes are becoming more widespread, especially when the victims are well-known individuals.
Why it matters
This incident demonstrates the high level of organisation of fraudulent groups that use the authority of state bodies to commit crimes. The use of the SSU name and fake documents allows criminals to influence even people with experience in public service.
The detention of suspects is an important step in the fight against such crimes, but the case of Valeriy Pustovoitenko highlights the need to raise public awareness of modern fraudulent schemes. It is important to remember that genuine law enforcement officers do not demand money to be transferred for «verification» or other similar actions.
