The National Police of Ukraine conducted a large-scale special operation involving mass raids on officials of military-medical commissions in May 2024 [1].
These raids target the integrity of the military draft process, as officials in these commissions determine whether citizens are physically fit for service. Allegations of bribery and asset concealment within these bodies have long complicated mobilization efforts during the ongoing conflict.
Under the codename “Eskulap,” police carried out 58 raids [1] across 16 regions of Ukraine [2]. While some reports indicate the number of raids was as low as 44, the National Police focused their efforts on those suspected of illegal enrichment [1].
Investigators believe officials concealed assets in their declarations to hide illicit gains. The total amount of suspected illegal enrichment is approximately 200 million hryvnias [3].
During the searches, authorities seized high-value assets that did not align with the officials' reported incomes. One seized Mercedes-Benz was valued at more than 100,000 U.S. dollars [4].
There are conflicting reports regarding the specific targets of the operation. Some sources state the raids focused on military-medical commission officials, while other reports suggest the targets were officials of territorial centers of supply [1].
This operation is part of a broader effort to purge corruption from the military administration. The National Police said the investigation into the concealment of assets continues as they analyze the seized documentation and property.
“The total amount of suspected illegal enrichment is approximately 200 million hryvnias.”
The crackdown on military-medical commissions reflects the Ukrainian government's need to maintain public trust in the mobilization process. Because these commissions act as the gatekeepers for military service, systemic corruption here can lead to a perception that the wealthy can buy their way out of the draft, undermining national morale and manpower.
