In the local landscape nature reserve “Hai” near the village of Dolynivka in Stryi district, the illegal felling of 28 fir trees has been recorded, causing environmental damage of more than UAH 2.5 million. This was reported under the procedural guidance of the Stryi District Prosecutor’s Office.
A notice of suspicion of official negligence resulting in serious consequences for state interests has been served on a 39-year-old acting forester. This concerns criminal proceedings under Part 2 of Article 367 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.
According to the investigation, between February and April 2023 the official failed properly to perform his duties relating to forest protection in the area under his responsibility within the nature reserve fund of Ukraine. He did not ensure adequate protection of forest stands from illegal logging, their prevention and recording, and also did not inspect the sites where the trees were destroyed or assist in identifying those involved and bringing them to justice.
As a result of these actions, unidentified persons illegally felled 28 fir trees with diameters ranging from 36 to 63 cm in the territory of the Hai reserve. The total amount of damage caused to the natural environment exceeds UAH 2.5 million.
The pre-trial investigation is being conducted by the Investigation Division of Police Department No. 3 of the Stryi District Police Directorate of the Main Directorate of the National Police in Lviv region. Pursuant to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of committing a crime and may not be subjected to criminal punishment until their guilt has been proved in the manner prescribed by law and established by a guilty verdict of a court.