A high-ranking Russian military officer faces charges for staging a self-inflicted gunshot wound to fraudulently claim wartime injury compensation, exposing deep corruption within the armed forces.
Scheme Involves Dozens of Accomplices
Konstantin Prolov, a lieutenant colonel in Russia’s 83rd Airborne Assault Brigade, allegedly orchestrated the plot to simulate a combat injury. The scheme ensnared another commander, more than 30 medics, and military doctors, according to investigative findings.
Russia’s Investigative Committee reports the fraud caused financial losses exceeding 200 million rubles, equivalent to roughly $2 million.
Widespread Military Corruption
Commanders routinely demand bribes from soldiers in exchange for leave approvals. Many also pressure troops to exaggerate or fabricate injuries, pocketing compensation funds in the process. Such practices highlight systemic graft plaguing Russian ranks.
From Media Hero to Accused Fraudster
Prolov, operating under the callsign “Hero,” previously flaunted four medals and boasted of frontline exploits on state broadcasts. He cultivated an image as a celebrated war veteran.
Authorities plan to deliver his sentence next month. Prolov intends to admit guilt beforehand to seek leniency, though he denied embezzlement allegations during a phone interview from a Moscow detention facility.
Broader Implications Amid Ukraine Conflict
Soldiers increasingly enlist for Ukraine operations motivated by financial incentives rather than patriotism. This scandal amplifies public resentment toward economic and social privileges afforded to the military.
In November 2024, President Vladimir Putin signed a decree standardizing injury payouts: 3 million rubles for severe wounds and 1 million rubles for minor ones.
