In the Lviv region, the case of the director of the Slavske forestry enterprise Halsillis was brought to court over the illegal felling of more than 18,000 trees. The total environmental damage is estimated at over UAH 103 million. The official, who is a member of the Slavske village council, issued felling tickets in violation of the law.
Illegal logging in Slavske forestry
The Specialised Environmental Prosecutor's Office of the Prosecutor General's Office has filed an indictment against the director of the Slavske subsidiary of the forestry enterprise Galsillis. This person is also a current member of the Slavske village council.
The official is charged with illegal deforestation committed by a group of persons by prior conspiracy, which caused grave consequences under Article 246 (4) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.
Pros. according to the investigation, In 2019-2023, more than 18,000 trees were illegally cut down in Stryi district under the guise of «rare forest» logging, which is not provided for by the current legislation. The total environmental damage is over UAH 103 million.
Details of the case and consequences
The investigation established that the director of the forestry, who was supposed to ensure the reforestation of the land, instead issued logging tickets for illegal logging. He was well aware of the lack of legal grounds for such work, but facilitated it anyway.
To compensate for the damages, prosecutors filed civil lawsuits in the interests of the state through Kozivska village and Slavska village councils.
According to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, The accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Impact on the environment and society
Large-scale illegal logging of more than 18,000 trees and dozens of hectares of forest has caused significant environmental damage in the Lviv region. The destruction of rare forests affects the region's biodiversity and upsets the ecological balance.
This case demonstrates the challenges in controlling forestry and the threat of corruption schemes at the local level. The further course of the trial will be important for strengthening accountability for environmental crimes in Ukraine.
Role of the authorities and prospects
The case is being considered by the court, and the prosecutor's office continues to work on compensation by filing claims on behalf of local councils.
This precedent highlights the importance of legislative and regulatory mechanisms in the field of forest protection. Holding officials accountable for violations of environmental laws is key to preserving Ukraine's environment and resources.
