Head of Khmelnytskyi RMA exposed in mobilization evasion scheme

The acting head of the Khmelnytskyi Regional Defense Agency was exposed in a corruption scheme. The official promised the employees of the enterprise, whose reservations were not extended, to issue a limited fitness certificate or arrange for them to serve in the rear. The suspect was detained while receiving a $1,600 bribe. This was reported by the Specialized Prosecutor's Office in the Defense Sector of the Western Region on February 21.

According to the investigation, the first deputy head of the Khmelnytskyi district administration, who at that time was acting as head and was a member of the commission at the combined city TCP and SS, established a corruption scheme to evade military service.

As ZAXID.NET learned from its own sources, we are talking about 65-year-old Viktor Palamarchuk, who has been acting as head of the Khmelnytskyi Regional Administrative District since June 2024.

In late 2024, a local businessman approached the official to inquire about the procedure for booking his employees. His company installs gas and water supply, heating, and sewage systems. The official said that bookings were currently suspended, but offered to help the men avoid mobilization through his connections.

The official later certified conscripts as being limitedly fit due to health conditions or fit for service in rear units or training centers. He estimated such services at $1,600 per person.

The official was detained while receiving the agreed amount.

He was charged under Part 3 of Article 368 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (extortion and receiving unlawful benefit). The sanction of the article provides for up to 10 years of imprisonment. Currently, investigators are choosing a preventive measure for Viktor Palamarchuk and are deciding on his suspension from duty.