Ex-deacon of the UOC (MP) who helped evaders detained in Odessa region

A new scheme of evading mobilisation and illegal border crossing of persons of draft age in Odessa Region has been exposed by officers of the Security Service of Ukraine.

As it turned out, the suspect forged "lists of missionaries" on behalf of the alleged head of the diocese, who should go abroad on religious community business.

The attacker then submitted the fake documents to the State Service for Ethno-politics and Freedom of Speech for far-fetched "arguments" about the need for pseudo-clerics to leave Ukraine. The cost of one "place on the list" was from 4.5 thousand American dollars. The amount depended on the urgency of departure and financial capabilities of clients, - stated in the message.

Under this scheme, the detainee tried to transfer six potential conscripts abroad. However, he was detained "on the hot end".

Law enforcers conducted searches at the place of residence of the detainee and found computers, mobile phones and SIM cards red-handed. As well as cash obtained by criminal means.

The ex-deacon was taken into custody and reported on suspicion of illegal transfer of persons across the state border of Ukraine (part 3 of article 332 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code). He faces imprisonment for up to 9 years with confiscation of property.

The investigation into all circumstances of the violation and identification of all persons involved in the offence is ongoing.