Border officers of the Carpathian detachment, in collaboration with the Migration Police of Lviv Region and investigators from the Yavoriv District Police Department, uncovered a scheme organized by two residents of Lviv Region to illegally transport conscription-aged men across the state border.
How the Scheme Operated
A 20-year-old resident of Yavoriv District, along with his 25-year-old accomplice, intended to help conscription-aged men bypass official checkpoints and illegally leave Ukraine. The organizers charged $2,500 per person, with payments processed via cryptocurrency wallets.
Their “services” included:
- detailed travel instructions;
- transport to the border;
- full guidance for the illegal crossing.
The duo recruited clients through online platforms and social media networks.
Caught in the Act
One of the suspects was apprehended near the border during an attempt to smuggle a client. Both individuals have been charged under Article 332, Part 3, of the Criminal Code of Ukraine for “Illegal transportation of persons across the state border.”
Legal Consequences
The accused face imprisonment for a term of seven to nine years. Additionally, they may be prohibited from holding certain positions or engaging in specific activities for up to three years, and their property is subject to confiscation.
The investigation is ongoing.