Bucha Deputy Mayor Charged with Embezzling UAH 3 Million in Housing Repair Scheme

Allegations Against Bucha's Deputy Mayor

According to Главком: Law enforcement has formally accused Dmytro Cheychuk, the deputy mayor of Bucha, of misappropriating over 3 million Ukrainian hryvnias in public funds intended for the restoration of residential buildings damaged by Russian shelling. The total amount embezzled is reported to exceed UAH 3,164,000. This case highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring accountability for reconstruction efforts in war-affected communities.

Investigation Details

Following the liberation of the Bucha community, contracts were signed for major roof repairs across five apartment buildings. Investigators allege that inflated prices for construction materials were deliberately inserted into the cost estimates, allowing the official to approve completion certificates. These certificates then served as the basis for transferring payments to the contractor. According to the Kyiv Regional Prosecutor's Office,

“expert examinations and audits have confirmed total damages exceeding UAH 3,164,000.”

The case is being investigated under Parts 5 and 4 of Article 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which carry a maximum penalty of up to 12 years in prison. Separately, two leaders of housing construction cooperatives in Bucha have been charged with fraud involving over UAH 35.5 million, affecting at least 66 victims.

These developments have raised serious concerns about financial misconduct in Bucha’s recovery process, threatening not only the local government’s credibility but also the well-being of residents awaiting assistance to rebuild their homes. The long-term implications could undermine infrastructure restoration in the region and erode public trust in municipal authorities, which must ensure transparency and efficiency in the use of budget funds during the post-war recovery period.

The situation in Bucha is not isolated, as similar allegations of corruption have emerged in other Ukrainian cities. For instance, a Kyiv city official is facing accusations of soliciting bribes for advertising permits, highlighting a troubling pattern of financial misconduct within local governments. These incidents underscore the urgent need for increased oversight and accountability in the management of public resources, particularly in areas striving to recover from the impacts of war.