8 Feb 2018 20:12

Russia shuts down 153 bootleg distilleries, stockpiles

MOSCOW. Feb 8 (Interfax) - Russian alcohol market regulator Rosalkogolregulirovanie, with the support of armed services liquidated 153 illegal alcohol production and storage enterprises in 2017.

Over 40 million liters of ethanol and spirits were removed from circulation. About 70 automated, semi-automated and manual bottling lines were dismantled and over 11.4 million counterfeit federal special and excise stamps were seized.

In addition, over 170 vehicles engaged in transporting bootleg alcoholic products were confiscated.

Work to identify and interdict illegal production and circulation of ethanol and alcoholic products continues, Rosalkogolregulirovanie said.

Personnel from the FSB, Interior Ministry and prosecutor services took part in the investigations.