Two former forestry executives in Zakarpattia region, who allowed illegal deforestation worth over UAH 50 million, will be tried under SBI materials

SBI employees have completed a pre-trial investigation into the former chief forester and head of the forestry section of the state enterprise Irshava Forestry. Their actions led to massive illegal felling of trees.

The indictments were sent to court.

It was established that the former officials did not provide adequate measures to protect the forest plantations on the area they were responsible for. This resulted in massive illegal felling of trees of various species, including valuable ones.

More specifically, the chief forester negligence resulted to a significant number of trees being cut dow, causing an estimated UAH 46.6 million worth of environmental damage. His failed to perform his duties such as protecting the forest from illegal loggin, identifying and prosecuting offenders.

A forestry area manager failed to ensure the protection of the territory, which resulted in the felling of trees worth another UAH 5.2 million.

The former officials are charged with official negligence that caused grave consequences (Article 367(2) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

The penalty under the article is imprisonment for up to 5 years.

The issue of compensation for damages caused to the state is being settled.

The Transcarpathian Regional Prosecutor's Office is providing procedural supervision.