The Ukrainian state purchased 67 000 body armour vests and made a 100% advance payment to the supplier. After the material was delivered, an independent examination determined the vests were of poor quality and did not offer the declared level of protection.

It is suspected that a former official of the Ministry of Defence who lead the department developing material support was involved in the scheme. In March 2022, he allegedly facilitated the conclusion of the contract with the supplier and received financial remuneration from the supplier for his services. It is suspected that these illicit funds were invested through another person into real estate in Nice, France.

Eurojust coordinated the cooperation between the Ukrainian and French authorities. The Agency facilitated the execution of several Mutual Legal Assistant request from Ukraine to France, enabling the authorities to search the property in France and supported the action day, making it possible for Ukrainian authorities to join their counterparts in France and support the hearing of suspects and witnesses.

During the action day, the property and several bank accounts of the individuals allegedly involved were seized. Investigations into the offence will now continue by examining the evidence seized during the searches.

The actions were carried out by the following authorities:

• France: Investigative Judge – Court of Paris; Central Office against Major Financial Crime
• Ukraine: Prosecutor General’s Office; Security Service of Ukraine; State Bureau of Investigation