In Mykolaiv, the head of a landfill is suspected of causing 700,000 in air pollution

In Mykolaiv, the head of the municipal solid waste landfill was notified of being named a suspect following a prolonged garbage fire that caused excessive emissions of pollutants into the air. According to the expert assessment, the environmental damage exceeded 700,000 hryvnias.

This was reported by the Mykolaiv Regional Police.

According to the investigation, the 49-year-old manager of the landfill, which is operated by a municipal utility, was responsible for ensuring the proper operation of the facility, as well as its environmental, sanitary, and fire safety conditions.

In September 2023, a fire broke out at the landfill, which covers an area of approximately 3,000 square meters. The prolonged fire destroyed trash and solid household waste, causing excessive amounts of pollutants to be released into the atmosphere. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within a few hours.

Specialists from the State Environmental Inspection of the Southwestern District estimated the environmental damage at over 700,000 hryvnias. This amount was also confirmed by the findings of an engineering and environmental assessment commissioned by investigators.

Law enforcement officials notified the official that he was suspected of violating Part 1 of Article 241 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—pollution of the atmosphere with substances harmful to the environment — and under Part 2 of Article 367 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—official negligence resulting in serious consequences.

Under these articles, he faces up to five years in prison, as well as disqualification from holding certain positions or engaging in certain activities, and a fine.

The pretrial investigation is ongoing. At the same time, in accordance with the Constitution of Ukraine, the man is presumed innocent until his guilt is proven in court.

Андрій Колісніченко