In the Rivne region, law enforcement officers uncovered an organized scheme for illegal amber mining, which had been operating for almost two years and, according to preliminary estimates, caused environmental damage of over 350 million hryvnias.
According to the investigation, a group of individuals used a legal cover in the form of geological exploration work, while actually carrying out industrial amber mining. The scheme involved heavy machinery — excavators, motor pumps, and other specialized equipment.
A separate role in the activity was played by an entrepreneur, whom the investigation considers a key link in ensuring the process. He was responsible for financing, supplying equipment, and organizational issues, which allowed the illegal fishery to continue operating continuously.
According to law enforcement officials, during the period from mid-2022 to spring 2024, participants in the scheme extracted more than 5 tons of amber. The extracted resource was sold outside of official registration, avoiding paying taxes.
Nine people are already involved in the case. Some of them are accused of creating and participating in an organized group, as well as in illegal mining. The materials regarding these individuals have been submitted to the court.
Investigators are continuing their work, checking for possible involvement of other individuals in the scheme. Law enforcement agencies state that they intend to fully uncover the mechanism of illegal mining and hold all participants accountable.
