SBU disclosed the mechanism of budget funds misappropriation by officials of district state administrations of Ternopil region while natural gas supplying to local educational establishments.

Operatives of the special service have found that during 2018-2019 a number of budget institutions in the region carried out purchase of natural gas at higher prices in the interests of commercial structures. Despite the fact that the price of natural gas in the energy market decreased almost twice, officials concluded additional agreements with suppliers, in which the cost of production only increased.

According to preliminary conclusions, due to illegal actions of officials the state suffered losses amounting to UAH 2,5 million. SBU investigation helped regional prosecution authorities to initiate 4 criminal proceedings under Art. 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

After documenting illegal actions, re-concluding of unprofitable contracts on arm’s length terms was initiated. This will allow to save UAH 7.5 million during the current heating season.

The article provides a penalty from five to eight years of imprisonment.

The pre-trial investigation is under way.