In Kyiv region, law enforcement officers uncovered a scheme to embezzle over UAH 5.3 million during the purchase of diesel generators for the sewage treatment plant in Bila Tserkva. According to the investigation, officials of the city council and representatives of commercial structures were involved in the misappropriation of budget funds by forging tender documents and money laundering.
Exposing embezzlement in the procurement of generators
Law enforcement officers of Kyiv region uncovered a large-scale scheme of embezzlement of over UAH 5.3 million during the purchase of diesel generators for the critical infrastructure of Bila Tserkva. According to law enforcement agencies, officials of the Bila Tserkva City Council and representatives of commercial structures are suspected of misappropriating budget funds when purchasing equipment for sewage treatment plants during martial law.
The investigation found that in 2024, two diesel generator sets were purchased to ensure the continuous operation of the city's sewage treatment plant. However, the expected cost of the purchase was formed on the basis of artificially created commercial offers, and the technical requirements of the tender were prescribed for a specific model of generators and a specific supplier.
Details of the scheme and damages to the community
Investigators found that the actual cost of the imported generators was significantly lower than the amount paid from the city budget. According to the experts, the territorial community of Bila Tserkva suffered losses of over UAH 5.3 million. A part of the funds received as a result of this transaction was legalised through financial transactions.
Law enforcement officers documented that the money was transferred to the accounts of companies and individual entrepreneurs under the guise of paying for fictitious services and non-refundable financial assistance. Such actions indicate a planned nature of the crime and an attempt to conceal the traces of illicit enrichment.
Suspicions and further actions
The director of the company, who was involved in the scheme, was served a notice of suspicion. Investigative actions are ongoing, law enforcement officers are identifying all those involved in the misappropriation of budget funds and money laundering.
The case is being investigated over embezzlement of property on a particularly large scale and money laundering. The issue of choosing a measure of restraint for the suspects and bringing other persons involved in the case to justice is being decided.
Why it matters
Exposing corruption schemes in the area of critical infrastructure procurement is extremely important for ensuring transparency in the use of budget funds, especially under martial law. Such abuses not only cause financial losses to local communities, but also undermine public trust in the authorities.
Controlling the efficiency of public procurement and ensuring that those responsible for embezzlement are held accountable are key to maintaining the stability and security of critical facilities. Detecting and investigating such schemes helps prevent further offences and strengthen law and order in the region.
