A military officer in the Odesa region was arrested for allegedly promising to help two soldiers, who deserted, return to service for 45,000 UAH. The suspect has been charged and faces up to eight years in prison with property confiscation.
According to the investigation, a 37-year-old deputy commander for psychological support at a military unit assured the soldiers of his help in reinstatement, promising them positions and immunity from criminal charges.
He claimed he could influence officials in the prosecutor's office and the military command.
For his "assistance," he demanded a total of 45,000 UAH, threatening that failure to pay would result in their inability to return to service.
Law enforcement officials apprehended the suspect during the receipt of the agreed bribe. He has been charged under Article 369-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine for receiving an unlawful benefit for influencing a state official’s decision.
The maximum penalty in this case is eight years in prison along with property confiscation. The court has imposed a preventive measure in the form of custody with the option for bail set at 242,240 UAH.
The investigation is ongoing.
The case is being handled by police and the SBU under the supervision of a specialized military prosecution office.