The suspect was part of a network engaged in the illegal smuggling of men into a neighboring country. He was caught while attempting to pay a soldier an advance of $1,000. Criminal charges have been filed against him, and he faces up to eight years in prison with potential asset forfeiture.

A 39-year-old resident of Odessa offered a border guard in the Rozdilna district a financial reward to facilitate the illegal passage of conscripted men into the Transnistrian region of Moldova.

The soldier reported the suspect to his superiors, leading to a coordinated special operation with the police to document the crime.

The suspect promised the border guard an advance of $1,000 to $1,500 per person, with additional payment just before crossing the border. In return, the soldier was expected to act as a guide, providing information on the location of border patrols to allow safe passage.

The arrest occurred during a meeting when the suspect handed over the first installment of $1,000, which was confiscated as evidence.

After gathering sufficient evidence, the police charged the suspect with offering illegal benefits to a public officer, punishable by up to eight years in prison and asset forfeiture.

The court has placed the suspect in custody with an option to post bail set at 181,680 hryvnias, which he has not utilized.

Law enforcement is working to identify all individuals involved in this crime. The investigation is ongoing under the supervision of the Odessa Specialized Prosecutor's Office in the Defense Sector.