NABU has concluded its investigation into the embezzlement of funds for water and heating in the Donetsk region
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) have completed a pre-trial investigation into an organized group suspected of embezzling funds intended to provide heat and water to three settlements in Donetsk Oblast. The head of the Department of Housing and Utilities of the Donetsk Regional State Administration is implicated in the case.
According to the investigation, in the spring of 2023, members of the group identified facilities that were to be renovated using budget funds.
“They artificially inflated the cost of equipment and labor, simulated competition in the bidding process, and ensured the victory of a company under their control, which was effectively managed by a classmate of the official. Despite the lack of proper project documentation, a contract worth over 200 million hryvnias was signed with the firm for the supply and installation of seven modular boiler rooms in Selidovo and Ukrainka,” the NABU reported.
It is noted that, although the boiler houses themselves were delivered, only two were connected, and even those did not function due to malfunctions.
Law enforcement officials stated that the next phase of the scheme was carried out in Svyatogorsk under the pretext of restoring water supply and sewerage services.
According to NABU, it was established that, under the contracts, funds were transferred for work that was either not performed or carried out in a “make-do” manner—without permits or designs, and with gross violations of regulations.
“To conceal the crime, the group members forged certificates of completion, unjustifiably extended contract terms, and pressured the heads of utility companies to accept the facilities onto their balance sheets,” NABU reported.
According to an expert assessment conducted during the pre-trial investigation, the amount of damage caused to the state totals 265 million hryvnias.
It is noted that the group members appropriated these funds and disposed of them at their own discretion, while residents of frontline cities were left without heating and drinking water during the winter.
In November 2025, NABU and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) notified five participants in the scheme of their status as suspects.
This was reported by NABU.
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