The fraud dates back to 2003-2004, when Mr. Gudovichev was managing director of the company Severgaz. He then reportedly transferred 83 million RUB to a personal bank account, Bclass.ru reports. The Severgaz company has been a key player in the laying of gas pipelines on the territory of Arkhangelsk and Vologda Oblasts. Mr. Gudovovich is also known for the alleged bribery of Governor Kiselyov. A video tape showing Mr. Gudovich giving a major bribe to Mr. Kiselyov caused a scandal in the northwest Russian region. The video was later declared a falsification by regional prosecutors.
