Mykolaiv exposes scheme with conscripts in hospitals and shopping centers

In Mykolaiv, officials of regional hospitals and territorial recruitment centers are suspected of issuing disabilities to conscripts. The court seized documents and tens of thousands of dollars and euros seized during searches.

This is evidenced by the decision of the Central District Court of Mykolaiv.

The Investigative Department of the SBU Office in Mykolaiv region is conducting a pre-trial investigation in a criminal proceeding on possible bribery by officials of medical institutions and representatives of the TCC. The case concerns the establishment of disability for citizens of military age and the execution of documents restricting their fitness for military service.

Officials of the Mykolaiv Regional Clinical Hospital and the Regional Ophthalmology Hospital are involved in the proceedings.

On February 4, 2026, law enforcement officers conducted a search at the place of residence of one of the defendants. During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized medical records and military registration documents, forms for passing the military medical commission, stamps-clichés of medical institutions and doctors, a flash drive and a system unit, as well as an object that looked like a Fort-12R traumatic pistol with ammunition. In addition, they seized funds in the amount of USD 15,300 and EUR 20,600.

The prosecutor filed a motion with the court to seize the seized property. According to the prosecution, the documents, forms and seals could have been used to issue fictitious medical and military records, and the equipment could have been used to store information about the organization of the illegal scheme. The investigation also believes that the seized funds could have been obtained through criminal means.

The investigation documented conversations that, according to law enforcement, indicate involvement in the organization of illegal disability determination for conscripts to evade military service.

The defense objected to the motion, noting that some of the seized documents and equipment were used in the course of professional activities and contained information that constituted attorney-client privilege. It was also emphasized that the traumatic pistol was in legal possession, and the money was of legal origin and belonged to a relative.

The court partially granted the prosecutor's motion. The seized documents, forms, seals and cash were arrested as they may meet the criteria of material evidence and require examination.

At the same time, the arrest of the traumatic pistol was denied due to the lack of its evidentiary value. The laptop seized during the search was returned to the owner. The pre-trial investigation is ongoing.

Also in Odesa, the police completed a pre-trial investigation against a man who organized the production of forged documents for people liable for military service so that they could travel abroad. He faces up to nine years in prison and confiscation of property.

Анна Бальчінос