ESBU uncovers illegal tobacco production in the Poltava region: UAH 49 million sold over three years

 Detectives of the Territorial Office of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine in the Poltava region have exposed a group of individuals who organized the underground production and sale of tobacco. According to the investigation, over the course of three years, the suspects sold illegally manufactured products totaling approximately UAH 49 million. The pre-trial investigation has been completed, and the indictments have been sent to court.

The investigation revealed that five individuals had acted in concert to organize an underground tobacco production facility. To facilitate this, they rented warehouse premises, periodically changing locations to conceal their illegal activities.

Each member of the group had a specific role. One suspect supplied raw materials from the Rivne region, three individuals were responsible for shredding and packaging the tobacco, and another female participant handled product sales and communication with customers.

The manufactured tobacco lacked quality certificates and permits. It was sold outside the legal market. On average, the suspects made approximately 170 order shipments every month.

During authorized searches, detectives seized raw materials, finished products, and equipment used for the illegal production.

Three suspects were notified of suspicion under Part 2 of Art. 28, Part 2 of Art. 204, and Part 2 of Art. 28, Part 1 of Art. 204 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—illegal manufacture, acquisition for the purpose of sale, and transportation of illegally manufactured tobacco, committed by prior conspiracy by a group of persons. Two other individuals were notified of suspicion under Part 2 of Art. 28, Part 1 of Art. 204 of the CC of Ukraine (sale of illegally manufactured tobacco, committed by prior conspiracy by a group of persons). The criminal proceedings have been referred to court.

Operational support was provided by the SSU Office in the Poltava region and the Strategic Investigations Department of the National Police in the Poltava region. Procedural guidance was provided by the Poltava Regional Prosecutor's Office.