ESBU uncovers illegal e-cigarette network in the Kyiv region: counterfeit goods worth over UAH 2 million seized

 Detectives of the Territorial Office of the ESBU in the Kyiv region have uncovered and shut down the activities of a group of individuals who organized an illegal distribution network for tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and vaping liquids. As a result of authorized searches, excisable goods worth over UAH 2 million were seized.

The investigation established that the suspects supplied counterfeit tobacco products to the region and sold them through retail outlets in the Kyiv region, specifically in the Bucha and Obukhiv districts. Sales were also conducted through social media, with deliveries made across Ukraine.

The sale of excisable goods took place without being recorded in accounting or tax records. This allowed the suspects to avoid paying excise tax and receive undocumented profits.

During the investigative actions, ESBU detectives seized approximately 7.5 thousand liquid components, over 1.5 thousand POD systems, e-cigarette liquid cartridges, and hookah tobacco. Additionally, mobile phones, POS terminals, rough records, computer equipment, and a vehicle were seized.

The estimated value of the seized excisable goods is UAH 2.1 million.

A pre-trial investigation is ongoing under Article 204 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal storage, sale, or transportation with the intent to sell excisable goods).

The full circle of individuals involved in the illegal activity, as well as the origin of the counterfeit products, is being established.

Procedural oversight is provided by prosecutors of the Kyiv Regional Prosecutor's Office.

In accordance with Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of committing a crime and cannot be subjected to criminal punishment until their guilt is proven in accordance with the law and established by a court's verdict of guilty.