Law enforcement authorities have executed a series of large-scale searches at the Slovechanske forestry office in Ukraine’s Zhytomyr region as part of a criminal investigation into abuse of power and systemic illegal logging. Environmental experts estimate the financial damage to the state budget at more than 120 million UAH. Despite the ongoing criminal probe, the former head of the branch, Anatoliy Pavlenko—under whose tenure the losses were recorded—avoided suspension and was subsequently appointed to lead the Baranivka forestry office.
Industry sources indicate that Pavlenko was appointed as chief forester at Slovechanske roughly six months ago. The hiring decision was made by Serhiy Zayats, head of the Kyiv regional forestry office, reportedly following active promotion by influential figures linked to law enforcement agencies. Pavlenko served in the position for four months, a period during which the most extensive unauthorized timber harvests took place.
Investigative agencies intensified actions to dismantle the alleged corruption scheme. Raids targeted Slovechanske administration facilities, private residences of key figures, and registered sole proprietors (FOPs) involved in timber harvesting, transportation, and processing. Officers seized official documentation, informal financial ledgers, and digital storage devices detailing the systematic nature of the illicit operation.
Investigators are also examining the continuity of administrative networks within the regional forestry structure. Prior to Pavlenko’s tenure, the Slovechanske office was headed by an official named Pavlushenko. Following his departure, an established network of loyal personnel—including Pavlushenko’s son—remained in place. According to investigators, this existing infrastructure continued operating under the new management, ensuring uninterrupted sales of unrecorded timber.
The case has drawn significant public scrutiny due to the subsequent managerial reassignment. Rather than facing suspension or administrative restrictions pending investigation, Pavlenko was transferred to an executive position at the Baranivka forestry department. These personnel shifts have raised concerns regarding transparency and accountability within the state forestry management system.
Law enforcement agencies are currently working to identify all parties involved in organizing and shielding the illegal operation. The primary goal of the investigation is to determine whether higher-ranking officials who facilitated these appointments and provided institutional cover will face legal accountability, or if charges will remain limited to field operators.
Key Quote:
«Law enforcement officers conducted a series of searches targeting forestry staff and affiliated contractors. The central focus of the investigation is whether prosecutors will hold high-level organizers and political sponsors accountable, or if prosecution will end with low-level executors.»