Investigation Service arrests three in Batumi over counterfeit spirits and fake duty stamp racket

Officers from the Investigation Service of the Ministry of Finance of Georgia have uncovered a counterfeit alcohol and fake excise stamp production and distribution ring in the city of Batumi, according to an official statement issued by the agency.

The Investigation Service reported that criminal proceedings have been initiated against seven individuals, three of whom have been arrested.

“The investigation established that the accused, seeking illegal financial gain, systematically produced counterfeit whiskey and other alcoholic beverages of well-known brands using spirits and special additives in makeshift distilleries. These products were subsequently sold to shops and bars across the Adjara region bearing fake excise stamps.

As a result of the investigative measures conducted, counterfeit whiskey and vodka, large quantities of second-hand bottles from various brands, spirits of unknown origin, fake excise stamps, and equipment used in their manufacture were seized from the makeshift distilleries and retail outlets.

At this stage, intensive investigative operations remain ongoing to seize remaining counterfeit alcoholic beverages from the retail network and to identify other individuals involved in the crime.

The investigation is proceeding under Article 197, Part 1; Article 197¹; and Article 200¹, Part 2, Sub-clause (b) of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which carry a penalty of four to six years’ imprisonment,” the Investigation Service statement reads.