The pre-trial investigation into the use of counterfeit excise stamps and transportation for the purpose of illegal manufacture, purchase, storage, sale and sale of tobacco products (Part 1, Article 199, Part 2, Article 204 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine) is conducted under the procedural supervision of prosecutors of the Lviv Oblast Prosecutor’s Office.
According to the investigation, the head of a company in Lviv oblast organised the cultivation of tobacco for illegal sale. The company later planned to illegally manufacture and sell tobacco products from this raw material using special equipment.
In the framework of the criminal proceedings, more than 20 tonnes of compressed tobacco leaf were seized and arrested. This is estimated to be worth over UAH 5 million.
The investigation continues.
The pre-trial investigation is being carried out by detectives from the BES Territorial Department in the Lviv oblast.
Note: According to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of a criminal offence and shall not be subject to criminal punishment until proven guilty by law and found guilty by a court decision.
Information Policy Department
Directorate of Lviv Regional Prosecutor’s Office