Odessa resident to face trial for illegal operation of two gas stations following ESBU investigation

 Detectives of the Territorial Office of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine in the Odesa region have concluded a pre-trial investigation into a man who organized a network of illegal gas stations selling counterfeit fuel without the required permits.

The investigation established that the owner purchased fuel of unknown origin at significantly lower prices without a license or business registration. He then sold it across various districts of Odesa. To facilitate this, he installed refueling equipment, storage tanks, and fuel dispensers.

Furthermore, he unofficially employed two individuals who sold the illegally produced fuel for both cash and non-cash payments without issuing receipts. Their salaries were paid «under the table» (in envelopes).

Detectives conducted authorized searches on Buhaivska Street and in Pavla Kravtsova Lane, where they seized over 18 tons of A-95 gasoline and diesel fuel, along with fuel dispensers, reservoirs, and the equipment/structures used for the illegal operations.

The total value of the seized assets is nearly UAH 2.5 million. To ensure compensation for the damages caused by the criminal offense, a freeze has been placed on the seized property.

According to expert reports, the fuel and lubricants seized during the searches do not meet state standard (DSTU) requirements. The illegal gas stations have been completely dismantled.

The suspect was notified of suspicion under Article 204, Part 1 (illegal manufacture, storage, sale, or transportation for the purpose of sale of excise goods) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The indictment has been sent to court.

Operational support was provided by the Strategic Economic Protection Detectives Department. Procedural guidance was provided by the Odesa Regional Prosecutor's Office.

Note: 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 a lawful manner and established by a court's verdict of conviction.