The SSU has uncovered that the management of a leading oil research and design institute in Kyiv was cooperating with the aggressor state.

The individuals detained in the case are the chairman of the board, two heads of specialized departments, as well as chief engineer and one of the engineers of the institution.

According to the investigation, they helped russia restore its oil refineries, which were severely damaged by Ukrainian drone attacks.

At russia’s request, the officials prepared design documentation for the reconstruction of three key refineries.

The total cost of russian ‘contracts’ was almost half a billion Hryvnias (USD 12 mln).

This amount also included remote support by the designers of the technological processes for restoration and modernization of the russian damaged refineries.

During the searches of the suspects’ offices and homes in Kyiv, Lviv and Kharkiv, the SSU seized mobile phones, computer equipment, laptops, flash drives and records with evidence of cooperation with russia.

Based on the evidence, SSU investigators served the five detained officials of the institute notices of suspicion under Article 111-2.1 of the CCU (aiding the aggressor state).

Four of them are in custody. The investigation is ongoing. The suspects face up to 12 years in prison with confiscation of property.

The operation was carried out under the procedural supervision of the Prosecutor General’s Office.