Awaiting determination in the case.
Top Managers of Far Eastern Energy Company Face Embezzlement Charges
In a series of legal proceedings, three former top managers of PJSC "Far Eastern Energy Company" (FEECo) have been embroiled in a case of alleged embezzlement. Alexander Efremov, Nina Zapryagaeva, and Alexei Yakolev have faced charges related to the embezzlement of 687 million rubles from the company between 2009 and 2015.
The initial trial, held at the Frunzensky District Court in Vladivostok, found all three defendants guilty of abetting and inciting the embezzlement of funds. Nina Zapryagaeva and Alexei Yakolev were sentenced to seven and a half years in a general-regime colony, while Alexander Efremov received seven years. However, a recent development saw the Criminal Chamber of the Primorsky Regional Court overturn the district court's verdict, sending the case for a new trial in March 2024.
During the initial trial, Alexei Yakolev committed suicide on May 12, 2023. Alexander Efremov, who was previously under house arrest, was taken into custody in the courtroom after the verdict was announced.
Nina Zapryagaeva and Alexei Yakolev, along with their lawyers, Sergei Tkachev and Konstantin Pakhomov, have demanded their acquittal, maintaining their non-involvement in the crime. In a surprising turn of events, the Frunzensky District Court acquitted Zapryagaeva and Yakolev by the end of 2023 due to their non-involvement in the crime.
The court also satisfied FEECo's civil claim for the recovery of 420.9 million rubles in damages from the defendants jointly and severally. An arrest on the property of the defendants remains in effect until the decision is enforced.
Alexander Efremov was found guilty of incitement to embezzlement in one instance and acquitted in another, receiving a sentence of four years in prison, but was released due to the expiration of the statute of limitations. He has admitted his guilt and requested a punishment not involving imprisonment.
The next appellate hearing is scheduled for August 29. It is essential to note that as of mid-2025, detailed updates on the current status of their case—such as trial outcomes, appeals, or acquittals—are not publicly confirmed in accessible sources. For the latest and most precise information, checking official court records, reputable news outlets covering Russian corporate legal affairs, or statements from the involved parties would be necessary.
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