The Security Service of Ukraine exposed a criminal group on a large-scale illegal logging of valuable timber. The law enforcement seized over 50 cubic meters of logged timber and equipment.

Allegedly, illegal business was set up by residents of Ternopil region. They logged the timber in municipal area and sold it to businessmen.

According to experts, only on two land plots the suspects caused losses to the state for UAH 1,000,000 (USD 37,000).

The members of the group are served notices of suspicion under Part 4 Article 246 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

The suspects’ equipment is arrested.

The operation was conducted jointly with Police and environmental inspection under the supervision of the Prosecutor’s Office of Ternopil region.