The SBU documented large-scale illegal subsoil development in Bilyaiv district of Odesa region.

Allegedly, a local private commercial entity organized the illegal business. Dealers received an official license and began to extract sand. However, the areas significantly exceed the size of the licensed sites. They sold the illegally extracted sand to local private companies, avoiding tax payments.

During the investigation, law enforcement officers found trucks and excavators used for illegal mining. According to preliminary estimates, state losses top UAH 100 m.

During the searches of the office and at offenders’residences, the SBU confiscated computer equipment and accounting documents proving their illegal activities. Currently, the court seized 12 units of special equipment. The issue of seizing other property of the company and the director's personal property is being resolved.

The investigation is underway within criminal proceeding initiated for violation of the rules of subsoil use, which created a danger to the environment and caused serious consequences. The SBU is going to serve a suspicion notice to the director for above-mentioned crime.

The operation was conducted jointly with the investigators of the Main National Police Department in Odesa region under the supervision of the Odesa Region Prosecutor's Office.