In Ukraine, a fraudster was exposed who offered a citizen a solution to his extradition to Russia for one million dollars. The suspect, who claimed to have connections with the top leadership of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), was detained by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO).
The scheme of "fake" assistance
According to the investigation, the incident occurred after SBU officers conducted a search in the home of a citizen holding a temporary residence permit in Ukraine. Exploiting the man's fear of possible criminal liability and deportation to the aggressor state, the fraudster offered his services.
The scheme was simple and ruthless: for $1 million, the perpetrator promised to "positively resolve the issue" of terminating extradition and closing the case. The money was to be transferred in four installments of $250,000 each. As a guarantee, the fraudster cited his connections at the very top of the intelligence hierarchy.
The first installment and threats
The victim believed in the possibility of a "bribe" and handed over the first part of the sum — $50,000. However, after receiving the money, the fraudster did not stop and demanded the remainder. In case of refusal, he began threatening the victim, claiming that without further payments, the bribery of SBU officials would not take place, and extradition would become inevitable.
However, the criminal's plan was not fully realized. The remainder of the sum was never paid due to certain circumstances, which allowed law enforcement to uncover the scam. Subsequently, NABU and SAPO informed the suspect of suspicion of extortion and fraud.
Context of anti-corruption investigations
This investigation is taking place against the backdrop of a series of high-profile cases initiated by anti-corruption bodies. Earlier, NABU reported on suspicions presented to the State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine during the period from 2020 to 2024. The suspect is accused of manipulating donations collected for Ukraine. Although the bureau officially does not name the individual, the position was held by Oleksandr Bankov during those years.
Furthermore, NABU and SAPO announced suspicions against eight individuals involved in the theft of more than 150 million hryvnias from the National Guard. All suspects are charged with embezzlement of property on an especially large scale by prior conspiracy by a group of persons. These cases testify to the systematic work of law enforcement in uncovering corruption schemes and fraud within state structures.
