The SBU blocked the illegal export of high-quality wood in Kirovohrad region. Every month, the offenders exported goods worth over UAH 5 million (USD 178,571).

SBU investigators established that the management of territorial division of the State Forest Resources Agency jointly with the officials of subordinate regional forestries organized illegal business. They exported timber to the EU under the guise of low-grade goods at cut price.

Law enforcement found that the offenders sold almost 600 cubic meters of valuable wood every month.

SBU operatives detained four trucks in Kirovohrad, Cherkasy and Rivne regions. It transported almost 100 cubic meters of timber and lumber.

Law enforcement officers conducted searches in regional forestries and forest processing workshops. During the investigation, the SBU found more than 2,000 cubic meters of high-quality oak cut for export.

Within the criminal proceedings, law enforcement seized drafts and black accounting records confirming unlawful activities.

Illegal business was operating during 2020-2021. Examination will estimate the exact amount of state losses.

The pre-trial investigation is ongoing for misappropriation, embezzlement or conversion or property by malversation; smuggling.

The issue of serving the organizers and participants of illegal scheme suspicion notices is being resolved.

The operation was carried out under the supervision of Kirovohrad Region Prosecutor's Office.