Within the counterintelligence protection of critical infrastructure in the field of environmental and technogenic security, SBU uncovered misappropriation of budget funds allocated for environmental protection in Halytskiy district.

SBU operatives received the information that several entrepreneurs concluded agreements with the local authorities of one of the district settlements to carry out works to protect the territory from flooding. The full sum of money was transferred to entrepreneurs.

The inspection found that the necessary work was not actually carried out by the businessmen. A specialist, appointed for technical supervision and control over the quality and volume of work, did not put forward the requirements to perform all the necessary work.

During pre-trial investigation SBU officers documented that the businessmen in collusion with employees of the local self-government misappropriated almost UAH 580,000
(USD 21,500) allocated by the special fund on environmental protection.

The offenders received a notice of suspicion for misappropriation, embezzlement or conversion of property by malversation and for forgery in office. The type of detention is being chosen.

Investigation is underway within the initiated criminal proceeding in order to establish all the circumstances and to bring to responsibility persons involved in the illegal activity.

The operation was conducted by the SBU Office in Ivano-Frankivsk region jointly with the Main National Police Department in Ivano-Frankivsk region under the legal supervision of the Prosecutor’s Office of Ivano-Frankivsk region.