ESBU shuts down three illegal gas stations in Chernivtsi and Khmelnytskyi regions

 Detectives of the Territorial Office of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine in the Chernivtsi region have exposed and shut down three illegal gas stations operating across the Chernivtsi and Khmelnytskyi regions.

The investigation established that these stations were engaged in the retail sale of fuel of unknown origin without the necessary permits. Specifically, they lacked retail licenses, quality certificates, and documentation confirming the origin of the petroleum products.

As part of the pre-trial investigation, detectives conducted authorized searches. During the investigative actions, over 60,000 liters of fuel were seized. Additionally, 6 fuel dispensers, 7 storage tanks for fuel and lubricants, and 2 liquefied gas tanks were confiscated. Furthermore, UAH 35,000 in cash obtained from the sale of fuel was seized.

Detectives also seized documentation regarding the purchase and sale of petroleum products, as well as mobile phones belonging to individuals involved in the illegal activity.

The pre-trial investigation is being conducted under Part 2 of the Art. 212 (tax evasion committed by a group of persons in large amounts) and Part 1 of Article. 204 (illegal circulation of excise goods) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

Procedural guidance in the criminal proceedings is provided by the Chernivtsi Regional Prosecutor's Office.