UAH 68 million was withdrawn from energy companies: SBU and BES expose large-scale scheme
The Security Service of Ukraine jointly with the Bureau of Economic Security exposed a large-scale scheme of embezzlement in Ukrainian energy companies. According to the investigation, the offenders about UAH 68 million was illegally withdrawn.
Details of the case
Law enforcement officers established that the sanctioned businessman organised a mechanism to circumvent restrictions on the withdrawal of capital from energy sector enterprises.
In order to implement the scheme, his accomplices created a fictitious position of advisor to the chairman of the board of a company that supplies electricity from the main power grids to end consumers.
In this position, the defendant was assigned a monthly a salary of UAH 1.5 million.
How the scheme worked
According to the investigation, through formal salary payments, the organiser of the fraud actually withdrew funds from energy companies, circumventing the sanctions imposed.
Law enforcement officers classify the actions of the defendants as a large-scale embezzlement of funds from the state energy sector.
What is the threat to suspects
The defendants in the case face up to 12 years in prison with confiscation of property.
The organiser of the scheme is currently outside Ukraine. According to the SBU, comprehensive measures are being taken to bring him to justice.
Context.
Ukraine's energy sector is under increased government scrutiny amid Russia's war against Ukraine and risks to critical infrastructure. Law enforcement agencies have recently stepped up their efforts to combat schemes to divert funds from strategic enterprises.
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