In Vinnytsia, a group was uncovered that, for $2,000, obstructed the work of the TCC and ‘pulled’ men out of mobilization

In Vinnytsia, law enforcement officers uncovered a criminal group that, under the cover of a public organization, obstructed mobilization activities for money and offered “protection” from mobilization for $2,000 per person.

This was reported by the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine.

According to investigators, the scheme was organized by two local activists who had previously been part of veteran and volunteer organizations. Together with three accomplices, they created a new NGO and began recruiting members, promising them “protection” from mobilization.

The suspects allegedly operated under the guise of the NGO “Volunteer Battalion named after Ivan Bohun”, presenting themselves as civic activists who help veterans and people in difficult life circumstances.

During мобилизационные мероприятия (mobilization operations), these “activists” reportedly showed up on site, interfered with the actions of Territorial Recruitment Center (TCC) staff and police, blocked their work, issued threats, and in some cases used force. The price for such “services” was $2,000 per person.

Over the course of a month, law enforcement recorded at least six such episodes. It is also reported that the group used a ceremonial vehicle labeled “On the Shield” and an ambulance as cover.

Over time, the organization reportedly grew to about 300 members, and its leaders began setting up branches in western regions of Ukraine.

“On January 23, under the procedural supervision of the Vinnytsia Regional Prosecutor’s Office, SBU officers carried out 40 searches of active members of the group. Phones, electronic storage devices, documentation, draft notes, cash, and vehicles used to obstruct mobilization activities were seized. Five people were detained,” the statement says.

They have reportedly been served notices of suspicion for threats and violence against law enforcement officers and for obstructing the lawful activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other military formations.

Prosecutors are preparing a motion to remand the suspects in custody with no alternative bail. The suspects face up to 14 years in prison.