The SBU exposed State Architectural and Construction Inspection officials on large-scale illegal issuance of permits and ready for commissioning certificates to construction companies.

The SBU established that the organized group included former and current officials of the State Architectural and Construction Inspection and officials of other state authorities.

To carry out the scheme, the suspects used controlled "consulting" commercial entities. They acted as mediators between commercial construction companies and the State Architectural and Construction Inspection officials during obtaining corresponding permits and certificates. The role of commercial entities was to provide a "positive" decision on the issuance of documentation.

The SBU documented that the State Architectural and Construction Inspection officials, in violation of the law, the Construction Code, state standards and regulations, issued permits for the start of construction work and ready for commissioning certificates. According to the experts, the illegal actions of the officials carried a potential threat to people's life and health.

Within the framework of the criminal proceedings, the law enforcement officers conducted more than 50 searches of administrative premises of state institutions, offices of controlled commercial entities, the suspects' residences and vehicles. The seized documentation will be added to the evidence base.

The investigation is ongoing upon the fact of abuse of authority or office.

The operation was conducted by the SBU Main Directorate for Combating Corruption and Organized Crime and the SBU Main Investigation Department.