ESBU uncovers underground electronic cigarette sales network in the Kyiv region: over UAH 3 million in counterfeit goods 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 network for the sale of tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, and vaping liquids. As a result of authorized searches, excise goods worth over UAH 3 million were seized.

The investigation established that the suspects organized the supply of counterfeit products to the region through retail outlets, specifically in Bila Tserkva. Sales were conducted exclusively for cash without recording transactions in accounting and tax records. This scheme allowed them to avoid paying excise tax and obtain unaccounted profits.

During the investigative actions, ESBU detectives seized over 12,000 liquid components, more than 700 POD systems, nearly 3,000 cartridges with liquid for electronic cigarettes, as well as hookah tobacco. Additionally, mobile and POS terminals, rough records, and computer equipment were seized.

The estimated value of the seized excise goods exceeds UAH 3 million.

A pre-trial investigation is ongoing under Part 3, Article 204 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal storage, sale, or transportation for the purpose of sale of excise goods).

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

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