NABU, SAPO uncover UAH 132.5 million transformer procurement scheme: organized group exposed (PHOTOS)

NABU and SAPO have exposed an organized group that embezzled funds from JSC "Kharkivoblenergo" during the procurement of energy equipment.

According to the investigation, in 2021, the acting chairman of Kharkivoblenergo, in collusion with the controller of several energy equipment supplying companies, formed an organized group.

In April-September 2021, the head of Kharkivoblenergo ensured that two predetermined companies won the tender for the supply of 11,904 transformer equipment and 79,425 electrical measuring devices (meters and auxiliary equipment) at the cost inflated by UAH 132.5 million. As the detectives found out, the price of some equipment components was raised fivefold.

The implementation of the corruption scheme was facilitated by the head of the Kharkiv Chamber of Commerce and Industry and an appraiser, who deliberately inflated the expected procurement costs in favor of the future winning bidders.

During 2021-2022, due to the partial execution of the contract for the supply of transformers and electricity meters at inflated prices, Kharkivoblenergo suffered losses amounting to UAH 12.5 million.

The imposition of martial law and the provision of humanitarian aid to the company from Ukrainian enterprises and international organizations, including energy equipment, forced the scheme participants to postpone the embezzlement of the remaining UAH 120 million. Following procedural actions by detectives at Kharkivoblenergo, the perpetrators decided in early 2023 to completely surrender the scheme and not to prolong the contract. 

In total, there are 5 suspects so far:

• the acting chairman of the Kharkivoblenergo JSC  (2020-2024); 
• the head of Kharkivoblenergo material support department;
• the head of the unit at the Kharkiv Chamber of Commerce and Industry;
• a private appraiser;
• the head of a commercial enterprise.

The actions of the suspects fall under Part 3 Art. 27, Part 5 Art. 191, Part 3 Art. 15, Part 3 Art. 27, Part 5 Art. 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

Two co-organizers have been detained under Article 208 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine.

The investigation is ongoing. NABU and SAPO are identifying other possible participants in the crime.