The Security Service, in cooperation with the National Police, neutralized an international criminal group in the Odessa region that was illegally smuggling citizens of conscription age across the border. To covertly transport draft dodgers on the region's roadways, the individuals used an ambulance with a medical crew.

This 'transfer' brought clients to the border with a neighboring European country, bypassing checkpoints. In the so-called 'green zone,' another participant in the scheme met the draft dodgers and guided them into the neighboring country through forest paths.

As a result of comprehensive law enforcement measures, officials intercepted an ambulance with flashing lights on the international route 'Odessa-Reni,' which was carrying two draft dodgers to the border.

At the same time, the organizers of the criminal group were apprehended.

According to the investigation, the organizers were two foreign citizens with temporary residence permits in Ukraine and a resident of the Odessa region. In exchange for money, they 'assisted' potential conscripts in evading mobilization and illegally crossing the border.

The cost of such 'services' ranged from $4,800 per client. The individuals received the money on a bank card belonging to their accomplice from the southern region of Ukraine.

Currently, all three organizers of the criminal group have been informed of suspicion under Part 3 of Article 332 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal transportation of persons across the state border of Ukraine). The perpetrators are in custody and face up to 9 years in prison with property confiscation.

Additionally, the question of qualifying the actions of the ambulance crew involved in the illegal activity is being addressed.

Comprehensive measures were carried out by the SBU in the Kherson region in cooperation with the National Police, under the procedural guidance of the Odessa Regional Prosecutor's Office.