In Odesa, 50 tons of humanitarian aid were sold on the market

Police in Odesa detained a former customs officer, a representative of a charitable organization, and a foreigner on suspicion of selling humanitarian aid at the 7th Kilometer market.

This was reported by the press service of the Prosecutor General's Office.

The investigation found that the aid came from abroad through charitable foundations. It was about clothes and shoes that were supposed to be given free of charge to people in need. Instead, these goods were put on sale. From October last year to April 2026, the humanitarian aid was delivered by truck to warehouses in Odesa, after which it was transported to the 7th Kilometer industrial market and sold for money. To create the appearance of legitimacy, documents were drawn up on the alleged transfer of aid between charitable organizations. In fact, the goods were immediately sent for sale.

The Main Directorate of the National Police in Odesa Oblast reported that in total, about 50 tons of goods worth more than UAH 44 million were imported under this scheme. All this resource, intended to help people, was actually monetized.


On April 30, law enforcement officers conducted 71 searches in Odesa and the region. They seized goods, equipment, documents and other evidence of illegal activity. Three members of the criminal group were detained and served with a notice of suspicion of illegally using humanitarian aid for profit. The issue of choosing a measure of restraint is being decided.


If found guilty, the detainees face imprisonment for a term of five to seven years with disqualification to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities for up to three years and confiscation of property.

Кирило Бойко