Misappropriated UAH 10 million raised for the Armed Forces: deputy created fraudulent call centers in Dnipro and Kyiv

A deputy from one of the municipal councils in Sumy region orchestrated the creation of two fraudulent call centers in Kyiv and Dnipro. Under the guise of a charitable foundation, these individuals collected funds purportedly for purchasing body armor, helmets, night vision equipment, and other ammunition for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This criminal scheme was reported by the press service of the National Police of Ukraine.

It has been determined that the criminal operation was led by the city council deputy in Sumy region. He hired employees, including managers and operators, who worked in these so-called offices. These employees made phone calls to businesspeople, soliciting their help in purchasing specific items for the military and providing the details of the controlled charitable organization.

In this manner, the scammers managed to collect over 10 million hryvnias. To conceal their criminal activities, the culprits transferred half a percent of the collected sum to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, while misappropriating the rest of the money.

During the investigation, the police conducted searches in the areas of Kyiv, Dnipro, Sumy regions, and Kyiv city. In the suspects' premises and those who may be connected to the crimes, the police seized office equipment, mobile phones, money, and documents. Additionally, they froze the accounts of the fund and its related counterparts through which the funds were being transferred.

The organizer of the criminal operation and seven of his accomplices have been charged with creating a criminal organization and fraud. The case has been referred to court, and the suspects may face up to 12 years of imprisonment.