ESBU in the Chernivtsi region exposes a raw material supplier for a shadow tobacco factory liquidated in the Poltava region

 Detectives of the Territorial Office of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine in the Chernivtsi region have exposed and shut down the activities of a local resident who served as a key link in a large-scale interregional scheme.

The investigation involves the supply of raw materials for an underground cigarette production line in the Poltava region. This operation follows previous efforts by ESBU detectives of the Territorial Office of the ESBU in Chernivtsi region, which led to the liquidation of a shadow tobacco factory in Kremenchuk. That earlier raid resulted in the seizure of two industrial lines, 38 tons of tobacco, and cigarettes with a total value of approximately UAH 50 million. The suspect in Bukovyna organized a full-cycle underground facility for producing fermented tobacco intended for counterfeit goods.

The investigation established that the individual set up an entire "mini-factory" on his own land plot. He managed the complete technological chain: from cultivating tobacco seedlings in greenhouses and harvesting leaves to processing them into finished tobacco products. To support the full production process, the man used self-made equipment, including a modified seeder for planting, as well as specialized devices for drying and shredding tobacco, and filling cigarette tubes.

During five searches, 5 tons of fermented tobacco were seized, as well as a full set of equipment used for its sowing, cutting, and drying. The estimated value of the seized items is about UAH 3 million.

Pre-trial investigation is ongoing into signs of criminal offenses under Part 1, Part 2 of Article 204, and Part 2 of Article 209 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal manufacture, storage, or sale of excisable goods and legalization (laundering) of proceeds derived from crime).

Procedural guidance is being provided by the Chernivtsi Regional Prosecutor's Office.