A high-profile case is underway in Lviv about the alleged embezzlement of over 700 million hryvnias allocated for the construction of fortifications in the Sumy region. High-ranking officials of the Lviv Regional Military Administration and representatives of contracting companies are involved in the investigation. Despite the open nature of the court hearings, journalists were forbidden to disclose any details of the pre-trial investigation.
The Lychakiv District Court of Lviv is considering a motion to impose preventive measures on more than ten defendants in the case, including Roman Dulya, the former head of the capital construction department of LOVA, two current employees of the institution, and representatives of contractors. The investigation suspects them of embezzlement and abuse of office during the implementation of the project, the total cost of which reached 708.8 million hryvnias.
The construction of defensive structures in Sumy region began in March 2024. Seven companies were involved in the work, with which 18 contracts were concluded. According to official statements by the Lviv Defense Army, the fortifications were completed on time and accepted by the Ministry of Defense. However, investigative bodies have doubts about the use of budget funds.
On October 8, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) reported suspicions to more than ten individuals. The next day, Deputy Head of the State Bureau of Investigation Yuriy Buchko confirmed that two employees of the department had been served with suspicions. He insists that all work was carried out under the control of law enforcement officers and the military, and the facilities were handed over without any complaints.
During the court hearings, the defendants' lawyers demanded a closed hearing, citing the case's defense sector. However, the court kept the hearings open, but forbade journalists from disseminating any data from the investigation materials. In particular, Judge Nazariy Nor chose 60 days of detention for Lesya Karanets, Roman Dula's common-law wife, with the option of a bail of 2 million hryvnias.
A similar decision was made by Judge Nazar Strepko regarding the director of LLC "BC Lviv" Ihor Letyuk. Journalists learn about the hearings only immediately before they begin, and the names of the suspects become known already in the courtroom.
It is currently unknown when the court will determine preventive measures for all those involved. The case is already being called one of the largest regarding the use of funds for fortification during wartime.
