A large-scale scheme of illegal export of freshly cut timber to the European Union was recently exposed in Lviv region. This case has gained considerable resonance, as timber trafficking is one of the key problems for both the local economy and the environment.
According to preliminary information, the dealers tried to pass off freshly cut wood as finished lumber using forged documents. This fake complex would have allowed them to deceive customs and hide the true origin of the goods. However, the attempted illegal export was stopped in time thanks to the prompt actions of the Border Guard Service and the Bureau of Economic Security at the Rava-Ruska checkpoint.
According to the investigation, an entrepreneur from Ivano-Frankivsk region tried to export 41 cubic meters of freshly cut wood, documenting it as finished lumber. Law enforcement officers promptly noticed the discrepancy and launched an investigation, which is being conducted by the Western Regional Directorate of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.
The falsification of documents was a well-planned scheme that would allow the criminals to sell illegally logged timber outside of Ukraine without paying the relevant taxes and fees. This violation not only reflects corruption risks, but also threatens natural resources that need to be protected and managed in accordance with environmental standards.
Border Guard Service and Bureau of Economic Security employees are actively working to prevent such offenses by developing preventive measures and jointly improving border control mechanisms. Their professionalism and coordinated work help minimize risks and ensure the security of Ukraine's economic space.
This situation demonstrates the need to improve the system of monitoring and licensing of timber harvesting to ensure transparency and environmental sustainability of processes in this industry. Disclosure of such schemes is an important step forward in combating illegal timber trade.
