Czech police investigate ČSA mine reclamation funds

The Czech National Center for Combating Organized Crime (NCOZ) is investigating matters related to the reclamation of brown coal mines, specifically concerning the ČSA mine in the Most region. The investigation is reportedly focused on a problematic contract between the state and the Tykač group.

A dispute has emerged between the company Severní energetická and the Ministry of the Environment regarding the use of funds saved during the reclamation process. Severní energetická expressed intentions to decide independently how to use these savings to support local municipalities. However, Environment Minister Igor Červený stated his intent to return all parties to the original agreement, which involves distributing funds to municipalities through the State Environmental Fund.

Environmental organizations have criticized the company's approach, suggesting that the shift toward natural succession in reclamation—which could save approximately one billion CZK—is an attempt to retain savings. While the company maintains it is following approved plans and legislation, the NCOZ investigation into the underlying contractual arrangements remains ongoing.