Investigative Measures Underway in Kyiv Following Suspicion of Arson at Local Wetland Ecopark – Sky Bulletin

The authorities in Kyiv are conducting a pre-trial investigation prompted by a fire that erupted at the Osokorky Ecopark in the Darnytskyi district on March 5, 2023, as reported by the Kyiv Police.

Osokorky Ecopark, a wetland area, has been at the epicenter of a long-standing battle between developers and environmental activists. These activists are fighting to stop unauthorized construction in the park’s lake and meadow areas and urging local government to withdraw construction permits.

The emergence of the blaze near Lake Tiahle was reported to emergency services at approximately 4:46 p.m. on March 5. Inflammable materials like dry grass and reeds around the lake facilitated the fire’s expansion over a three-hectare territory. Challenges such as flooding and limited access impeded the efforts of the firefighting teams.

Firefighting crews managed to contain the fire by 11:15 p.m., and the flames were completely put out just before the turn of the day.

A statement from the Osokorky Ecopark NGO on their social media page mentioned a warning about potential arson they had received days prior to the incident. This warning hinted at the possibility that developers might be associated with the fire.

Law enforcement in Kyiv have opened criminal proceedings under the stipulations of Part 2 of Art. 252 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which deals with the “intentional destruction or damage to protected areas or objects of the natural reserve fund,” as stated by the Kyiv Police.

The circumstances leading to the fire, the extent of the damage to the nature reserve, and the potential causes of the fire are currently under scrutiny by the Kyiv City Prosecutor’s Office.

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FAQ Section

What prompted the pre-trial investigation?

A fire incident at the Osokorky Ecopark in Kyiv’s Darnytskyi district on March 5, 2023, led to the onset of the investigation.

Why is the Osokorky Ecopark significant?

It’s a disputed wetland area caught between the interests of property developers and the efforts of civil society activists fighting against illegal constructions and preserving the natural environment.

What challenges did firefighters face?

The rapid spread of fire due to dry grass and reeds, along with accessibility issues caused by flooding, presented significant challenges to firefighting efforts.

Has anyone claimed responsibility for the fire?

The Osokorky Ecopark NGO received a threat of arson before the incident, but no parties have officially claimed responsibility. However, there are suspicions raised about developers’ potential involvement.

What does Part 2 of Art. 252 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code involve?

It addresses the deliberate destruction or damage to state-protected territories or objects within the nature reserve fund.

Conclusion

The fire at Osokorky Ecopark has escalated tensions between environmental activists and developers in Kyiv, prompting a thorough police investigation to uncover the motives behind the suspected arson. As the legal proceedings are unfolding, the community remains vigilant and the conservation of such natural habitats continues to be a pressing issue. Incidents like this underscore the complexity of balancing urban development with environmental preservation and the impact it has on local ecosystems.

Note: TheUBJ does not create the news content presented. This article is a rephrased version from various internet sources through AI news feed technology. Original content can be referenced at https://kyivindependent.com/police-launch-investigation-into-suspected-arson-at-kyiv-wetland-park/.