The SBU conducted a large-scale and multi-stage special operation, during which the criminal organization was shut down. The operation was conducted together with the Main Investigative Department of the National Police under the supervision of the Prosecutor General's Office.

The members of the group illegally mined and bought amber of large fractions for further smuggling across the state border of Ukraine to the countries of the Middle East and East Asia.

The group included citizens of Ukraine and foreigners. They were regularly buying amber of large factions from illegal miners and residents of Rivne region. The amber was transported by plane, either hidden in the luggage of couriers, or using forged documents of licensed subsoil users.

The suspects searched for clients through closed profiles on social networks, as well as conducted online auctions. The organizers used special software for secure exchange of information and logistics details. With the help of the software the suspects selected the customers, and displayed the route of amber movement to a foreign client. The software also had an "option" of financial reporting on illegal transactions.

The SBU seized five motor pumps, two UAZ cars and raw amber from the places of illegal amber mining.

Law enforcement officers also conducted 67 searches of the suspects’ residences and storage places in Rivne and Kyiv regions and the city of Kyiv.

During the searches the law enforcement found and seized:

• more than 1,000 kg of illegally mined raw amber;
• almost 500 kg of amber of large fractions and amber jewelry;
• amber processing machines;
• illegally obtained USD 130,000 and EUR 30,000;
• mobile terminals with installed software, used for communication with VIP customers;
• draft accounting records;
• 40 motor pumps and fire hoses for illegal amber mining.

Four members of the group, including one of the organizers, were detained and served the notices of suspicion of money laundering, violation of rules related to the protection of mineral resources and creation of a criminal organization.

The investigation is ongoing to bring to justice all persons involved in the illegal activity.