Fraudulent Schemes in Procurement of Ballistic Goggles for Ukrainian Armed Forces Lead to Loss of Over $900,000
In a major investigative revelation, law enforcement agencies uncovered a broad scheme of abuse during the procurement of protective gear intended for the Ukrainian military.
The actions of certain officials from the Ministry of Defense and affiliated companies caused substantial financial damage to the state, amounting to approximately 25.7 million hryvnias (roughly over $900,000).
According to investigation data, in December 2024, the director of a supply company illicitly delivered 18,000 ballistic goggles and masks to a state enterprise under the Ministry of Defense.
Despite negative laboratory results regarding the quality of these items, responsible officials failed to conduct re-testing or verification, instead approving the products based on forged reports from another organization.
Following this, the supplier transferred the goods to a military unit and received government funds, effectively embezzling public resources.
These illicit actions resulted in significant financial losses for the state.
Law enforcement—including the State Bureau of Investigation (DBR) and the Office of the General Prosecutor—conducted raids on the residences and offices of the suspects, seizing documents and electronic devices related to the procurement process.
The head of the supplier company has been detained, with charges of unauthorized appropriation of property through abuse of office during wartime.
Additionally, a former official from the Ministry of Defense responsible for quality control has been notified of suspicion for professional negligence.
Ongoing investigations seek to determine the full extent of culpability among other officials involved, aiming to establish all circumstances of the criminal scheme.