Kathrine Frich
Russia’s Investigative Committee has uncovered a stunning case of fraud within one of the country’s elite military units.
Russia’s Investigative Committee has uncovered a stunning case of fraud within one of the country’s elite military units.
35 Soldiers Faked Combat Injuries for Millions
At least 35 members of the 83rd Guards Air Assault Brigade reportedly shot each other to fake combat wounds.
The goal was to claim state compensation and receive medals for bravery. Authorities say the scheme netted over 200 million rubles — roughly €2.1 million.
Non-Fatal Gunshot Wounds and Fake Heroism
The soldiers reportedly took turns inflicting non-lethal injuries, creating the appearance of battle wounds.
These injuries were presented as having occurred during real missions, allowing participants to receive medals and financial awards.
The operation was highly coordinated and persisted over time. All injuries were carefully controlled to avoid death but appear convincing.
“The Executioner” Orchestrated the Scam
At the center of the operation was Konstantin Frolov, the leader of the brigade’s special operations group.
Known by the nickname “The Executioner,” Frolov inflicted four gunshot wounds on himself to play the role of decorated war hero.
He was arrested in June 2024 and later confessed to the scheme. His testimony helped implicate others, including his own commanding officer.
Colonel Arrested After Frolov’s Confession
Following Frolov’s admission, Colonel Artyom Gorodilov, the brigade commander, was also arrested.
Both men reportedly asked to be sent to the front lines in Ukraine instead of facing prosecution, but their requests were denied.
Investigators say the scandal exposed systemic abuse of Russia’s military reward programs and gaps in internal oversight.
State TV and Defense Ministry Spread False Stories
Frolov’s fake heroism wasn’t just rewarded, it was broadcast.
Russian state TV aired a segment portraying him as a noble officer who fought through injuries and even adopted a child he “rescued” from a bombing.
The Defense Ministry and other outlets echoed the same false story.
These fabrications were later traced back to reports manufactured by Kremlin-controlled media.
Ties to Russia’s Power Elite
Frolov is not just a rogue officer, he’s also the son of Oleg Frolov, a former deputy head of Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos.
Oleg Frolov is currently on trial for unrelated fraud tied to state contracts.
The scandal suggests corruption runs deep through both military and government institutions. Investigators say it reveals how the system rewards loyalty over truth.
A Medal Scandal That Embarrasses the Kremlin
The revelation has caused serious embarrassment for Russia’s military establishment.
It not only exposes fraud within an elite brigade, but also shows how easily state-controlled media can be manipulated.
As the war in Ukraine drags on, stories of fake heroism cast doubt on the Kremlin’s war narrative.
For a regime that thrives on patriotic mythology, this scandal cuts deep.
