In Zhytomyr region, the SBU exposed a scheme of illegal import of trucks from Europe.

Allegedly, the scheme was organized by three Ukrainian citizens. In 2019, they created several companies in Zhytomyr and Rivne cities. This companies specialized in customs clearance of vehicles. By providing false information on the first registration of trucks, the offenders artificially reduced the amount of mandatory customs payments. This way, the scheme allowed them to “save” UAH 70-600 thousand (USD 2,5 -21,000) on each car.

In the area of ​​activity of a customs post of Zhytomyr customs of the State Fiscal Service, the attackers managed to import almost 200 used trucks. The state budget suffered loss of almost UAH 40.5 m (USD 1.4m.).

The law enforcement officers conducted searches of the companies’ offices and the offenders’ residences. Customs and accounting documents, company seals, office equipment and license plates were seized. Earlier, the law enforcement seized the documents in the office of the customs post.

The investigation is ongoing upon the fact of tax evasion. Information on involvement of the customs officials in the scheme is being checked.

The operation was conducted by the SBU Office in Zhytomyr region jointly with the Investigative Department of the State Fiscal Service under supervision of Zhytomyr Region Prosecutor's Office.