Prosecutors of the Chernivtsi Regional Prosecutor's Office, together with detectives from the State Bureau of Investigations, uncovered a scheme of systematic unlawful profit at customs related to the importation of Apple smartphones into Ukraine.

According to the investigation, the "business" was organized by the deputy head of one of the customs posts of the Chernivtsi customs. He demanded money from individuals for facilitating the unhindered movement of smartphones across the customs border of Ukraine.

As established by law enforcement, he demanded $100 for each imported iPhone. Payments were made systematically, depending on the quantity of equipment being moved through customs.

The customs officer was detained while receiving another portion of unlawful profit - $4,200. During the pre-trial investigation, it was documented that the total amount of money he received was $10,400.

Currently, the official has been notified of suspicion under part three of Article 368 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - receiving unlawful benefits by a public official, combined with extortion. The issue of choosing a preventive measure and the suspension of the suspect from their position is being resolved.

Note: according to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of committing a crime and cannot be subjected to criminal punishment until their guilt is proven in a lawful manner and established by a court verdict.