Military Commander Arrested for Extortion
A military commander in the Odesa region was caught attempting to extort $2,000 from a subordinate in exchange for exemption from service. The suspect has been arrested and faces charges that could lead to a 10-year prison sentence.
The 38-year-old commander demanded an illegal benefit of $2,000 from a soldier, promising to exempt him from service and prevent deployment to a combat zone. The soldier reported the commander’s actions to the authorities, leading to an investigation.
As soon as the commander received the money, he was apprehended by law enforcement. The funds were seized as evidence.
Investigators charged the suspect under part 3 of article 368 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine for receiving illegal benefits. This crime carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and property confiscation.
The court has placed the suspect in custody with the option of bail.
The investigation is ongoing under the supervision of the Odesa Specialized Prosecutor’s Office. All circumstances of the crime are being established.
