In Zakarpattia region, the SBU blocked a large-scale illegal scheme of selling low-quality counterfeit fuel.

Allegedly, the scheme was organized by the residents from several regions. They sold petroleum products via the companies, licensed to distribute excisable goods. In total, 13 companies were involved in the scheme, including the bogus ones.

The offenders supplied low-quality fuel to a network of illegal gas stations in Zakarpattia region and sold it, avoiding taxes.

The perpetrators transferred funds to offshore accounts via conversion centers.

In 2019-2020, the offenders “laundered” UAH 130 m. (USD 4,6 m.). The exact amount of damage to the state budget is being established.

The law enforcement officers conducted searches of the places of fuel distribution and offenders’ residences. Accounting documents and other evidence of illegal transactions were seized.

One offender was served a notice of suspicion, and proceedings are pending against the others.

The operation was conducted jointly with the Main Department of the National Police in Zakarpattia Region under supervision of the Regional Prosecutor's Office.