Reported by
Ukraine’s prosecutors have charged two senior officials from the customs office of the Volyn region for taking part in a smuggling scheme that deprived the state budget of approximately $1.3 million.
According to investigators, between October and December 2020, the customs officials helped illegally import Apple computer equipment through the international Yagodyn border crossing without paying required customs duties. Authorities said the imported goods were disguised as used agricultural machinery and mechanical equipment to avoid detection.
Investigators documented eight separate incidents where the customs officers allegedly allowed the goods to pass through unchecked. They reportedly falsified official documents and entered false data into Ukraine’s automated customs clearance system, known as “Inspector,” to artificially reduce the amount of customs duties owed.
In July 2024, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) formally notified the officials of suspicion of abuse of power and forgery. The investigation concluded in September, and the case has now been sent to court for trial.
Ukraine has faced ongoing struggles with corruption, particularly within its customs services, which are seen as critical to government revenue. Authorities have increased efforts in recent years to target corrupt officials and disrupt smuggling networks, especially at key border points like Yagodyn.
The names of the officials were not disclosed, and neither NABU nor SAPO provided further details on whether other suspects or companies are under investigation in connection with the scheme.
