ESBU shuts down scheme selling counterfeit luxury gold jewelry in Odesa

 Detectives of the Territorial Office of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine in the Odesa region have shut down an organized group selling counterfeit gold jewelry and accessories under the guise of world-famous brands through retail stores in shopping malls.

A representative of the trademark owner filed a formal complaint with the Territorial Office, reporting the illegal use of a world-renowned jewelry company's logo. The sale of counterfeit products as authentic brand items caused significant financial damage to the rights holders.

ESBU detectives established that the suspects operated a network of jewelry stores across the Odesa region. Customers could freely purchase counterfeit jewelry and gemstones. Additionally, orders were accepted through social media and messaging apps and shipped via mail throughout Ukraine.

During authorized searches at the sales locations, Bureau detectives seized counterfeit gold jewelry valued at nearly UAH 4.6 million. Furthermore, they shut down a workshop where the suspects illegally manufactured jewelry using logos of famous trademarks.

The pre-trial investigation is ongoing under Part 3 of Article 229 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal use of a trademark, trade name, or qualified indication of the origin of goods). Authorities are working to identify all individuals involved in the illegal activity.

Procedural oversight is provided by the Odesa Regional Prosecutor's Office.