The SSU is dedicated to combating large-scale smuggling that poses a threat to the state security of Ukraine. In Chernivtsi region, the SSU dismantled a criminal organization engaged in illegal manufacturing of wholesale consignments of excisable goods for smuggling abroad.

Every month, the group manufactured over 100,000 packs of counterfeit cigarettes worth UAH 1 mln (USD 38,000).

According to the investigation, four locals organized the scheme. They set up a clandestine workshop in the garage in Vyzhnytskyi district.

The group purchased raw materials online and sold the goods to local smugglers.

In the searches at the suspects’ homes and workshop the law enforcement seized:

• equipment and material for cigarette production and packaging;
• large amounts of raw material and counterfeit cigarettes;
• records with the evidence of illegal activity.

The criminal proceedings have been initiated on illegal manufacturing, storing, sale or transportation of excisable goods and counterfeiting excise stamps.

The pre-trial investigation is underway to establish all the circumstances of the offence and bring to justice the involved individuals.

The SSU Office in Chernivtsi Region carried out the operation jointly with the National Police investigators under the supervision of Chernivtsi Region Prosecutor’s Office.