A large-scale distribution network for counterfeit e-cigarettes worth over ₴12 million was uncovered in Kyiv
Detectives from the Kyiv Regional Office of the Economic Security Bureau have uncovered a large-scale operation involving the illegal sale of counterfeit e-cigarettes and nicotine-containing products. More than 46,000 units of excise goods, with an estimated value of 12.3 million hryvnias, were seized from illegal circulation.
This was reported by the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine.
According to the investigation, a group of individuals organized the illegal storage and sale of counterfeit e-cigarettes, POD systems, and vape liquids in Kyiv.
As part of the pre-trial investigation, law enforcement officers conducted a series of searches and shut down 27 points of sale for counterfeit excise goods.
During the investigation, detectives seized:
- over 30,000 e-liquids;
- e-cigarettes;
- POD systems;
- cartridges;
- nicotine-containing liquids;
- hookah tobacco;
- snus.
According to law enforcement estimates, the approximate value of the seized counterfeit goods on the black market is about 12.3 million UAH.
Currently, a series of forensic examinations has been ordered in the case. Law enforcement officials are identifying all individuals involved in organizing the illegal business.
Operational support for the case was provided by officers of the Strategic Investigations Department in Kyiv of the National Police of Ukraine, while the Kyiv City Prosecutor’s Office is overseeing the proceedings.
Earlier, in the Chernivtsi region, law enforcement officers uncovered preparations for the illegal smuggling of counterfeit tobacco products across the state border.
As a reminder, the level of illegal trade in tobacco products in Ukraine in February 2026 showed a downward trend, standing at 17.6% compared to 17.8% in October of last year.
