Georgia’s Investigation Service has uncovered a scheme involving the production and sale of counterfeit alcoholic beverages and fake excise stamps in Batumi, with criminal prosecution launched against seven individuals and three people arrested.
According to the agency, the suspects allegedly operated makeshift production facilities where they used alcohol and special additives to manufacture counterfeit whisky and other alcoholic drinks under well-known brand names. The products were reportedly distributed to shops and bars across the Adjara region using counterfeit excise labels.
During investigative operations, authorities seized counterfeit whisky and vodka, large quantities of used bottles from various brands, alcoholic substances of unknown origin, fake excise stamps, and equipment allegedly used for their production from both illegal facilities and sales locations.
The investigation is ongoing to remove counterfeit products from the market and identify other individuals involved. Authorities said the case is being investigated under relevant articles of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which provide for imprisonment of up to six years if convicted.
