Over 63 million UAH saved for a Lviv region community: ESBU analysts prevent embezzlement

 Analysts of the Territorial Office of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine in the Lviv region have prevented the embezzlement of over 63 million UAH from the local budget. Violations and risks were detected during the implementation of a large-scale infrastructure project in one of the territorial communities of the Lviv district.

Thanks to the analytical work of the Bureau, it was possible to detect the risks of inefficient use of budget funds in a timely manner and prevent their loss before the project's completion.

As part of an information and analytical study, ESBU specialists reviewed a procurement contract for the construction of sewage networks and treatment facilities with a total value of over 72 million UAH. During the analysis of tender documentation, cost estimates, and the prices of equipment and building materials, the Bureau's analysts identified risks of significant overpricing.

Preliminary estimates show that potential overpricing of materials and equipment alone put nearly 13 million UAH in budget funds at risk. ESBU experts also flagged other inefficiencies, such as economically unjustified expenses and inflated work volumes.

Acting on prompt recommendations from ESBU analysts, the local government authority suspended operations and terminated the contract with the contractor.

Actual payouts were limited to 9.6 million UAH for verified, completed work, successfully preventing the misappropriation of 63.2 million UAH in local budget funds.

The Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine continues to strengthen its analytical capabilities to systematically counter budget embezzlement. This proactive, analytical approach enables the ESBU to detect risks during procurement planning or execution, thereby averting losses and protecting community funds.