SBI uncovers scheme for receiving UAH 700,000 in monthly bribes at State Labour Service

Law enforcement complete investigation into systematic bribery

The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has completed the investigation in a criminal case concerning a corruption scheme operating within the Southern Interregional Directorate of the State Labour Service of Ukraine. According to the investigation, officials received approximately UAH 700,000 in undue advantage monthly from representatives of enterprises.

Mechanism of fund acquisition

In accordance with the law enforcement version, the first deputy head and deputy head of the directorate organised this scheme in early 2026. The primary pretext for demanding funds was the procedure for taking mandatory occupational safety exams, as well as the issuance of permits for carrying out high-risk work.

Involvement of external structures

Two heads of training centres were also involved in the illegal activity. These institutions conducted training for enterprise personnel and assessed their level of knowledge. In reality, the mechanisms for controlling workplace safety were turned into a tool for illegal earnings.