Fraudulent Group Uncovered in Odesa Region Targeting Vehicle Buyers
In the Odesa region, law enforcement has uncovered an organized crime group that deceived citizens by promising to deliver vehicles from Europe for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Victims included both military personnel and civilians from various regions of the country. The total losses exceed 1.2 million UAH. The criminals face up to 12 years in prison with asset confiscation.
The perpetrators posted advertisements for vehicle sales on various platforms and social networks, posing as volunteers and logistics managers, convincing buyers to make advance payments for transportation and customs clearance. After receiving the money, communication with the 'sellers' ceased.
They withdrew the money onto bank cards of accomplices known as 'drops'.
Investigation revealed that victims came from 14 regions of Ukraine, with 20 documented criminal episodes linked to the group, resulting in losses of over 1,200,000 UAH. However, further information suggests that many more people have fallen victim, so documentation efforts continue.
During a joint operation involving the criminal block of the police and investigators, supported by special forces, the group's criminal activities were halted.
The organizer and members of the group are young men from the Odesa district. Several 'drops' from Kyiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions were also identified.
Authorized searches were conducted at the residences of group members, seizing computers, mobile phones, vehicles, money, and other material evidence vital for the investigation.
Almost all members of the criminal group, including the organizer and co-organizer, were detained in accordance with legal procedures. Based on the gathered evidence, investigators charged seven individuals with fraud committed by an organized group in particularly large amounts.
The court imposed preventive measures including detention with the right to bail and house arrest. According to Articles 190 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, the maximum penalty for the offenders is up to twelve years in prison with asset confiscation. The investigation continues under the supervision of the Odesa regional prosecutor's office.
The police urge citizens to be cautious. Do not send advance payments to strangers. Support the Armed Forces of Ukraine through verified funds that provide public reporting. If you have fallen victim to fraud, report it to the police. Every report helps stop criminals and protect others.
Remember the threats of online shopping, as highlighted by police lieutenant Tetyana Shmihol from the cybercrime department in Odesa region.
