SBU Main Directorate for the Counterintelligence Protection of the National Economy blocked a criminal group, involved in underground manufacture and sale of falsified medicines.

Allegedly, the scheme was set up by several Kharkiv residents and a representative of a private distributor company in Kyiv.

It is established, that in 2016 the suspects set up a clandestine laboratory, manufacturing medicines of hormonal group and anesthetics. The lab was located in rented premises in Kharkiv industrial area. The suspects used raw materials of unknown origin and sold the falsified product under the guise of famous Ukrainian brands via the Internet and pharmacy chains.

According to preliminary estimates, the dealers sold medicines worth UAH 15 (USD 600,000) million per year.

The law enforcement detained three suspects in Kharkiv and Kyiv, including the representative of the distributor company.

During the searches of suspects' residences and the underground lab, the law enforcement seized raw materials, falsified goods, equipment, documents and electronic devices, proving the illegal activity.

The detainees were served notices of suspicion of illegal production or sale of drastic substances (P. 2 Art. 321-1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine). The form of detention is being chosen.

The investigation is ongoing to establish and bring to justice all the persons involved.

The operation was conducted jointly with the Kyiv Local Prosecution Office No.7.