A trial has begun in Novosibirsk concerning the alleged embezzlement of over 50 million rubles allocated for the installation of more than 300 traffic lights that never materialized. The case, unfolding eight years after the alleged events, centers on accusations against former city officials, including Olesya Bogomazova, the former deputy head of the Department of Transport.

The investigation suggests that Bogomazova orchestrated the scheme with Konstantin Anakin, former head of MKU “Gorsvet,” and Dmitry Maltsev, former head of GBU NSO “Specialized Installation and Maintenance Institution” (SMEU). The trio is accused of diverting budget funds intended for traffic light maintenance into their own pockets.

Bogomazova is accused of receiving bribes, including household appliance certificates, from Maltsev in exchange for favorable treatment in contract approvals. She is also accused of providing preferential treatment to city council deputy Igor Titarenko by prioritizing his voters’ requests in exchange for gifts.

Bogomazova denies all charges, arguing that she lacked the authority to influence contract decisions or allocate funds for Titarenko’s projects. She claims her signature is absent from the relevant municipal contracts and that the indictment fails to specify her actions or exceeded powers.

Anakin’s lawyer argues that there is no evidence of a crime in his actions. The trial is ongoing, and the defendants maintain their innocence.