Lviv-based businessmen Roman and Ihor Grinkevych, alongside a former official from the Ministry Defense of Ukraine, are officially suspected of orchestrating a corruption scheme that influenced military procurement for the UAF worth a total of 1.84 billion UAH. According to investigators, the entrepreneurs systematically bribed the former official to lobby for their companies during the signing and advancing of contracts for military gear. The suspects are currently facing charges of offering and accepting unlawful benefits to influence official decision-making.
Law enforcement investigators have documented at least two specific instances of bribery involving the former defense official. The first instance involved direct wire transfers to the bank cards of associated and trusted individuals, totaling 150,000 UAH. The second episode involved funding the ex-official’s high-end getaway, covering accommodation, dining, and spa treatments at a sanatorium, which cost over 290,000 UAH.
The total amount of documented illicit benefits exceeded 441,000 UAH. The primary evidence in the case rests on extensive text correspondence between the suspects, which was uncovered by law enforcement.
«The case materials contain text correspondence between the suspects, in which they discussed money transfers, document approvals, the signing of agreements, and advanced contract funding,» the investigation files state.
The financial kickbacks were paid to secure at least five large-scale Ministry of Defense contracts for companies effectively controlled by the Grinkevych family. These critical Defense Ministry contracts involved supplying body armor, protective helmets, winter uniforms, and tactical gear for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Thanks to the established scheme, the enterprises under the businessmen’s control managed to secure over 1 billion UAH from the state budget in the form of advance payments and direct disbursements.
Law enforcement agencies are currently finalizing the evidence base in this high-profile case regarding defense sector corruption. If proven guilty in court, the suspects face lengthy prison sentences along with the confiscation of property.