The Security Service of Ukraine has blocked in Rivne region the illegal extraction of sand mixtures on an industrial scale in the territory of the state forestry in the Kostopil region.

Allegedly, in 2016 one of the local commercial structures initiated illegal mining of mineral resources of the state forest lands under the guise of rest area creation. With the use of heavy excavator-based equipment, the attackers removed the soil on the site over 14 hectares and organized illegal topsoil excavation by means of dredges. The law enforcement found that dealers exported from 10 to 20 lorries with sand of 20 tons each per day. Furthermore, they sold sand mixture to local private companies at the common rate in violation with tax legislation.

According to preliminary estimates, the illegal activity has caused significant damage to the ecosystem of the region: a several-meter long sand quarry has been formed at the site of illegal mining. Thus, the land undergone irreversible damage and cannot be restored. 

The criminal proceeding was initiated under Part 1 Art.240 and Part 1 Art.209 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. During searches at the site of illegal business heavy machinery and dredgers were seized.

Investigative actions are ongoing to identify all persons involved in the fraud, including forestry officials. 

The documenting of the crime was carried out by the SBU Office in Rivne region jointly with the National Police under the procedural supervision of the Zdolbuniv local Prosecutor's Office.