Massive Fraud Scheme Exposed in Kyiv Involving Fake Contacts with Top Officials
Authorities in Ukraine have uncovered and dismantled a sophisticated criminal scheme operating in Kyiv, where fraudsters deceived victims by pretending to have official ties with high-ranking government officials.
According to the National Police, one of the suspects claimed to be a cousin of Andriy Yermak, the head of the Presidential Office, promising victims quick employment in senior positions within the Presidential administration in exchange for substantial payments.
The fraudsters employed various concealment tactics, including voice-changing software and vehicle number modifications, to evade detection.
The scheme involved collecting payments in installments along with forged documents such as diplomas, English language certificates, and copies of passports.
In October alone, the scammers received over $15,000, with amounts of $10,000 and $5,000 being most notable.
Law enforcement agents documented their criminal activities in real-time, leading to the arrest of three participants during another attempt to collect a $50,000 bribe.
Under Ukrainian law, their actions are classified as especially grave fraud, and investigators are preparing charges.
Andriy Yermak, Head of the Presidential Office, confirmed the exposure of the group, emphasizing that this step is crucial in combating corruption and confident that justice will prevail for the perpetrators.