Counterfeit vodka brands were seized in Kazakhstan

Tengrinews.kz - Authorities in the Turkestan region have shut down three major underground factories producing counterfeit vodka, according to the regional prosecutor's office.

Following joint operations with the Economic Investigation Department, illicit production facilities were uncovered and dismantled in the Keles and Tolebi districts, as well as in the city of Turkestan.

"A total of 31,920 bottles of counterfeit alcohol were seized, including 12,280 labeled as 'Absolut,' 11,020 as 'SKYY,' and 8,620 as 'Aidabulskaya.' Additionally, 600 liters of alcohol-containing liquid were confiscated. The market value of the illegal products exceeds 170 million tenge," the statement said.

A pre-trial investigation has been launched under Article 233 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan, which addresses violations of excise goods labeling regulations and the forgery or misuse of identification and control stamps.

Previously, another counterfeit vodka factory was uncovered in southern Kazakhstan.