Ukraine exposes “fake soldier” scheme in Odesa region military unit

Police in Ukraine have uncovered a corruption scheme in a military unit in the Odesa region, involving the embezzlement of 16.7 million hryvnias (approximately $378,000), the country’s National Police announced.

Investigators found that the unit’s commander, together with three deputies and a company commander, registered draft-age men as military personnel even though they did not actually serve.

Salaries, bonuses, and allowances were then paid out to these “fake” soldiers, after which the money was withdrawn in cash and distributed among the participants in the scheme.

Authorities say that at least 19 individuals were fraudulently registered between 2022 and 2025.

All suspects have been formally notified of suspicion. If convicted, they face up to 10 years in prison.

By Jeyhun Aghazada