In the city of Sumy, the SBU exposed missappropriation of budget funds allocated for overhaul of the critical infrastructure facility.

Allegedly, officials of the local self-government together with contractor used their official positions to receive illegal gain. They overstated the volume and cost of the work performed.

Moreover, the fraudsters purchased building materials and equipment using bogus companies. The construction works were performed in violation with the existing law.

Preliminary estimates show that the city suffered almost UAH 1 m (USD 35,715) losses.

During searches of the suspects’ offices and residences in Kyiv and Sumy cities, law enforcement officers found documents and computers proving illegal activities.

The criminal proceedings were initiated for malversation upon prior conspiracy committed by a group of persons, which caused drastic consequences. The urgent investigative actions to prosecute all the offenders are underway.

The operation was carried out jointly with the Main National Police Department in Sumy region under the supervision of the Sumy Region Prosecutor's Office.