Millions in losses: ESBU dismantled a network of illegal gas stations in the Odesa region

Millions in losses: ESBU dismantled a network of illegal gas stations in the Odesa region

In Ukraine in 2025, 76 illegal gas stations were detected and dismantled. In 2026, this work continued. In particular, in the Odesa region, the operation of an entire network of illegal filling stations was stopped, where fuel of dubious origin was sold.

The Bureau of Economic Security reported this (ESBU). They noted that the illegal gas stations operated in:

• the cities of Berezivka and Artsyz;
• the settlements of Dobroslav and Bessarabka;
• the village of Buhaylyk.

Law enforcement officers said that the owner of these gas stations bought, in particular, gasoline of unknown origin at significantly lower prices. Subsequently, without the appropriate licenses and registration, he sold this fuel through a network of underground filling stations.

To do this, it is emphasized, he unauthorizedly installed fuel-filling equipment on roadside areas. And in addition:

• tanks for fuel storage;
• fuel dispensers.

Searches were conducted in the case. During which, according to ESBU, detectives seized:

• almost 30 tons of fuels and lubricants – diesel fuel, gasoline, liquefied gas;
• fuel dispensers;
• reservoirs;
• equipment and structures used for the operation of illegal gas stations.

"The gas stations have been completely dismantled. The total value of the seized items – 5.6 million UAH. By court decision, the seized property has been placed under arrest to ensure compensation for damages caused to the state," the statement says.

Currently, the offender has been notified of suspicion under Part 1 of Article 204 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal production, storage, sale or transportation for the purpose of sale of excisable goods). The indictment has been sent to court. He faces a fine from 8.32 to 16.64 million UAH with confiscation and destruction of the illegally produced goods.