In Kropyvnytskyi, the SSU exposed local entrepreneurs on embezzlement of state funds and prevented possible environmental disaster.

According to preliminary information, the offenders stole about UAH 3 mln (USD 105,500) on re-equipment of the city’s water supply system. Instead of certified equipment, they used low-quality systems of unknown origin. This equipment has been installed but has not been put into operation. Further, it has to be replaced.

According to the investigation, in 2018 the contractor company won a tender for re-equipment of the city’s water supply and purification system for UAH 63 mln (USD 2.2 mln). The contract included reconstruction of sewage treatment plants and construction of a mechanical dewatering plant.

Installing subpar equipment, the offenders endangered supply of drinking water to the city and ecological safety of the region. In case of malfunction, the equipment could have caused pollution of water bodies that provide drinking water for the population of Kropyvnytskyi.

The SSU investigators have notified the director of the private enterprise of suspicion of offence under Article 191.5 (appropriation, embezzlement of property or misappropriation through abuse of office) of the CCU.

The investigation is underway to identify and prosecute all those involved in the crime.

The SSU Office in Kirovohrad region carried out the operation under the supervision of Kirovohrad Regional Prosecutor’s Office.