In the heart of Odessa, a corruption scandal has been uncovered, revolving around abuses within military structures
At least two individuals — one of the commanders of the Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Center (TRSC) and his accomplice — are under investigation following malicious actions aimed at obtaining illegal benefits to "resolve" the issue of removing a military serviceman from he wanted list. According to information from the Specialized Defense Prosecutor’s Office of the Southern Region, this case came to light in April of this year, when the first testimonies and evidence were received. It was established that in April 2025, a civilian approached a military serviceman from the TRSC with a request to "resolve" the issue of his removal from the wanted list as an evader of mobilization. According to the preliminary scenario, the serviceman heard from an acquaintance about an offer promising to eliminate his status as a violator for money — initially, the amount was proposed at $1,500 USD, which later increased to $6,500 USD. According to investigators, the serviceman, who had direct influence over officials of the TRSC, agreed to carry out the "order" and insisted that an advance payment of $1,500 USD should be made immediately, with the remaining sum to be paid after the successful removal from the wanted list. At the same time, he acted in conspiracy with his accomplice, who allegedly served as an intermediary and coordinator to ensure the corrupt "service." By April of this year, the accomplices managed to obtain the first part of the illicit payoff — $1,500 USD, which law enforcement officials recorded during their arrest on April 18 near a grocery store in Odessa. Subsequently, the investigation uncovered that the criminals planned further actions: in May, at a parking lot near a shopping center, the serviceman received the second part of the illegal payment — another $5,000 USD. Overall, both suspects — the TRSC commander and his accomplice — were detained in accordance with current legislation. During investigative actions, they were placed in detention facilities, and a preventive measure in the form of custody was chosen for each of them. By court decision, each is to pay a bail of over 900,000 hryvnias. The investigation is also currently working to establish possible involvement of officials from the TRSC in criminal activities. The exposure of this corruption scheme has caused public outrage and highlights the need for systemic reforms within the defense structures. Ukraine continues its fight against corruption in the military sector, and this incident once again emphasizes the importance of increasing transparency and accountability in mobilization processes and military administration. Law enforcement agencies and investigators are continuing their inquiries into this case to fully establish all circumstances and bring to justice those attempting to enrich themselves at the expense of national defense, abusing trust and their official positions.