Russian law-enforcers investigate embezzlement of Hermitage reconstruction funds

In Moscow and St. Petersburg, the Russian Interior Ministry conducts searches in connection with charges of embezzlement of more than 50 million rubles that had been allocated for the reconstruction of the Hermitage.

Preliminary investigation found that from 2010 to 2013, a group of people made unwarranted changes in previously approved construction documents.

Investigators believe that the perpetrators forged the work performance acts, by adding inaccurate information in them about the actual scope and cost of works. Based on the inspection conducted by the Central Directorate for Economic Security and Anti-Corruption Struggle of the Interior Ministry a criminal case has been filed.