Tomas Domarkas, the 'Aušrietis', was questioned last year in a case regarding hazardous waste buried on his father's property
Tomas Domarkas is under investigation for burying hazardous construction waste on his father's land, with serious environmental damage reported.
Tomas Domarkas, a member of the Lithuanian parliament, has come under scrutiny following the discovery of hazardous waste buried on a property owned by his father, L. Domarkas, in Vieštovėnai village. During inspections of the land, authorities found over 100 tons of crushed construction waste, including 2.3 tons of crushed slate containing asbestos. Additionally, 58 tons of wood waste and nearly 900 tons of mixed construction and demolition waste were also identified in pits adjacent to two access roads leading to the site.
The environmental damage from these actions is reported to be significant, totaling nearly 4.6 million euros, according to the Environmental Protection Department. Investigations have indicated that the waste may be linked to a company named "Redus LT," which is based in Klaipėda but registered at the address of L. Domarkas's home in Vieštovėnai. Since September 3 of the previous year, prosecutors have been conducting an investigation into the matter, which may lead to criminal responsibility under sections of the Penal Code concerning major harm to the environment.
This situation poses serious implications for both Tomas Domarkas and the broader discourse around environmental protection and accountability in Lithuania. If found guilty, Domarkas and any associated parties may face significant legal repercussions, while the case highlights ongoing issues in waste management practices within the country. This investigation also serves as a critical reminder of the importance of enforcement against environmental violations, bringing into question the regulatory effectiveness in managing hazardous waste disposal in Lithuania.