Police Uncover Illegal Border Crossing Network
Law enforcement agents, together with border guards, apprehended two residents of the Belgorod-Dniester region who were aiding in the illegal crossing of Ukraine's state border by conscripted individuals. The perpetrators, including a minor, charged $7,000 to help a 'client' escape to Moldova outside of designated checkpoints. They now face criminal charges that could result in imprisonment and asset confiscation.
The police reported that two young men, aged 18 and 17, from the Petro-Pavlivka community, conspired with an unknown individual to transport a conscripted man to Moldova, whom they contacted via an advertisement in a messaging app. The 18-year-old met the 'client' in one of the villages in the Belgorod-Dniester region, received the first part of the payment amounting to $4,000 and sent the client to the younger accomplice. The 17-year-old received the second part of the payment, totaling $3,000, and provided accommodation until nightfall. At night, the minor was supposed to lead the man to the state border, avoiding checkpoints. However, as soon as the offenders received the money, law enforcement detained them.
"Investigators seized a number of physical evidence from the suspects confirming their involvement in the crime, including money obtained through illegal means. Based on the collected evidence, investigators charged the young men with aiding in the illegal transportation of individuals across Ukraine's state border by providing directions, means, and removing obstacles, in conspiracy with others for selfish motives. According to part 3 of article 332 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, the offenders face up to nine years in prison and asset confiscation. Currently, the court has set preventive measures: the older suspect is in custody, while the younger one is under house arrest 24/7," the statement reads.
Efforts are underway to identify all individuals involved in this crime. The investigation continues.
