Corruption Scandal in Lithuanian Army: Hundreds Evaded Military Service with Bribes
Lithuanian prosecutors are investigating a corruption scheme in which more than 200 young people allegedly evaded compulsory military service by paying bribes. The main suspect is a soldier responsible for managing conscript data.
Lithuania's prosecutor's office has launched an investigation into a possible corruption scheme within the compulsory military service system. Investigators suspect that more than 200 young people over the past five years may have avoided service with the help of intermediaries and by paying bribes.
The main suspect is a soldier from the Šiauliai Regional Military Command, who was responsible for administering conscript data. He is believed to have helped specific individuals avoid initial mandatory military service for payment.
Prosecutor Artūras Karpalovas of the Corruption Investigation Department stated that the soldier, acting together with other persons, is suspected of accepting bribes to help people avoid military service. Investigators indicate that at least six people may be involved in the scheme—another military official and several civilians. They searched social networks and messaging apps for young people who wanted to evade service.
The price for such a “service” ranged from 50 to 600 euros. Part of the money went to the soldier who handled the documents, while part went to the intermediary. If other intermediaries were involved, the amount increased, in some cases reaching 600 euros.
During the investigation, 14 searches were conducted, during which more than 30 items related to the case were seized—phones, computers, data storage devices, and documents.
The prosecutor's office warns that not only the alleged bribe recipients and intermediaries but also the young people who paid to avoid service may face liability.
The main suspect had served in the Lithuanian army for eight years. He has been suspended from service. If found guilty, he could face up to seven years in prison.
