A case involving the exchange of military drones for a Lexus has been referred to court in the Odesa region

Officials from the State Bureau of Investigations have completed a pretrial investigation into the commander of a military unit in the Odesa region who sold drones and equipment designed to counter enemy drones.

According to the SBI’s press office, the indictment has been filed with the court.

The official was responsible for the operation of unmanned aerial vehicle systems and counter-drone equipment. Taking advantage of his official position, he embezzled military property that was stored in a warehouse and was intended for use in the defense of the southern region.

Specifically, the servicemember stole reconnaissance drones and equipment designed to counter enemy drones. He pawned some of the equipment at a pawnshop and sold the rest at below-market prices.

With the money he received, the man purchased a Lexus worth $27,000 and gambled away part of the proceeds. As a result of these actions, the state suffered losses of more than 6.2 million hryvnias. The defendant has been suspended from his position and is currently in custody.

He is charged with embezzling military property by abusing his official position under martial law, misappropriation and embezzlement of another’s property, as well as laundering property obtained by criminal means. The penalties under these articles provide for up to 15 years of imprisonment.

Earlier in the Odesa region, the case of a lawyer appointed by the state to provide pro bono legal aid was referred to court. He demanded $3,000 from his client, promising to secure a suspended sentence through his alleged connections with a judge.

In addition, the lawyer demanded a separate fee for the defense itself. DBR officers detained him after he received part of the agreed-upon sum. He is currently under round-the-clock house arrest.

Кирило Бойко