In Bukovyna, a scheme for exporting Ukrainian timber abroad worth nearly €200,000 was uncovered

In Bukovyna, authorities uncovered an illegal timber trafficking scheme and seized assets worth more than 10 million hryvnias (€193,200).

This was reported by the National Police of Ukraine, which also published footage of the searches and the notices of suspicion.

According to the investigation, the organizer of the scheme was the head of one of the companies, who during 2024–2025 bought unregistered timber and then exported it abroad. Forged certificates of origin were used in the process. A private entrepreneur and forestry officials were allegedly involved as accomplices.

With operational support from the SBU’s Alpha special unit, 26 searches were carried out in Chernivtsi region — at woodworking enterprises, offices, storage sites, vehicles, and the residences of members of the criminal group.

As a result, officers seized about 1,000 cubic meters of timber, documents, marking tags, more than €48,000, $4,500, nearly 510,000 hryvnias (€9,853), firearms without permits, mobile phones, dashcams, and handwritten notes.

The total value of the seized property exceeds 10 million hryvnias, or more than €193,000.