Unauthorized connection to gas supply infrastructure results in potential administrative and criminal penalties
In Russia, unauthorized connections to the gas pipeline system can pose a significant risk to life and health, as gas leaks resulting from these illegal connections can cause explosions. These illegal activities are not only punishable by administrative fines, but they can also lead to criminal charges, including imprisonment for up to six years.
Under Russian law, unauthorized connection to gas networks is addressed by two key articles. Article 7.19 of the Code of Administrative Offenses imposes administrative penalties for such violations, typically covering unauthorized tapping into gas pipelines or gas facilities, causing disruption or damage. Penalties under this article can include fines, confiscation of equipment used, and administrative sanctions.
On the other hand, Part 3, Article 158 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation addresses theft or illegal appropriation of gas from networks. This article targets serious theft involving unauthorized connections, such as those committed on a large scale or by organized groups. The penalties under this article can include substantial fines, compulsory labor, or imprisonment for several years, depending on the severity and scale of the offense.
Citizens who illegally connect to gas pipelines can be charged with criminal offenses under Part 3, Article 158 of the Russian Federation's Criminal Code, specifically point "б". The fine for the criminal offense ranges between 100,000 and 500,000 rubles, and the threat from gas leaks is not limited to the offender but also extends to their neighbors.
JSC "Sakhatransneftegaz" and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) are collaborating to find and report unauthorized gas network connections without proper technical documentation. The Sales Department of JSC "Sakhatransneftegaz" has warned its customers about the irreversible consequences of illegal connection to the gas pipeline system.
It is essential for individuals to understand the severity of these offenses and the potential penalties they face. For detailed current penalty amounts or recent legislative amendments, consulting official Russian legal texts or government sources would be necessary.
The illegal connection to gas networks can lead to charges under Part 3, Article 158 of the Russian Federation's Criminal Code, and individuals found guilty may face fines ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 rubles. Unauthorized gas connection activities in the energy sector can also jeopardize the industry's stability, posing a significant risk of accidents, such as explosions, and endangering public safety in finance terms through fines and other penalties.
