Scandal in Mykolaiv: Overpayment for Wood for the Ukrainian Armed Forces

A Scandal Erupts in Mykolaiv

A scandal erupted in Mykolaiv surrounding the head of the Housing and Utilities Department, who is suspected of abusing his official position. According to the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office in the defense sector, he is accused of aiding in overpaying over a million hryvnias when purchasing fuelwood for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Allegations of Overpayment

In September 2023, without conducting a tender, he purchased 1070 cubic meters of wood at state expense. The investigation found that the price significantly exceeded the market price. The fuel materials were transferred to a private company, with which the head of the Housing and Utilities Department had previously entered into an agreement that allowed for overpaying for the wood. In September-October 2023, the department transferred over 3.5 million hryvnias to the company, of which 1.1 million hryvnias were overpaid due to inflated prices.

Legal Charges Filed

The suspect has been charged with abuse of office, and preventive measures will be taken after that.