7 thousand dollars for evading mobilization: scheme of illegal departure revealed in Rivne region

In the Rivne region, a criminal network engaged in illegal assistance to men in escaping mobilization was exposed. The offenders offered their services for a lot – from 5 to 7 thousand dollars.
Border guards found three channels organized by six people from the Sarny district who tried to smuggle men abroad. According to the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (SBGS), these individuals sought clients willing to take risky actions, advising them on routes and behavior during meetings with border guards, bypassing checkpoints, and engineering barriers.
In January and February, the criminals tried to help nine men cross the border. However, their plans were exposed thanks to the measures taken by border guard detachment operatives, cooperation with the Internal Security Department and local law enforcement.
As of today, six criminals have been charged with smuggling of persons across the state border committed by a group of people by prior conspiracy with mercenary motives. The case has already been submitted to the court for further consideration.
According to the Criminal Code, such offenses are punishable by imprisonment for 7 to 9 years, disqualification from holding certain positions for up to 3 years, and confiscation of property.