Ukrainian law enforcement has uncovered a large-scale scheme involving the theft and resale of drones supplied to the military under the “Army of Drones” program, the Prosecutor General’s Office said on Wednesday, April 1.
According to investigators, a unit commander and two civilian accomplices are suspected of organizing the scheme, which resulted in losses exceeding Hr.15.2 million ($370,000).
Drones sold after being written off
The investigation found that from November 2024 to March 2026, the suspects allegedly arranged the write-off of drones used in combat units before reselling them.
The scheme operated across multiple regions, including Donetsk, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions.
In total, more than 340 drones of various types were allegedly misappropriated and sold through online platforms using anonymous accounts.
Assets seized, enrichment suspected
Authorities said proceeds from the scheme were likely used to purchase real estate, vehicles and jewelry.
Investigators also said the commander may have illegally acquired assets worth more than Hr.10.7 million ($260,000), significantly exceeding declared income.
During searches, law enforcement seized drones and components, cash totaling Hr.1.48 million, and several vehicles, including Toyota Land Cruiser and Mercedes-Benz models, as well as documents linked to property ownership.
The suspects have been charged with misappropriation of military property during wartime, a serious criminal offense under Ukrainian law.
The commander also faces additional charges of illicit enrichment.
All suspects have been placed in pretrial detention, while investigators continue to identify others potentially involved in the scheme.