Counterfeit Duracell operation uncovered in Lviv region: 119,000 batteries bearing the brand's logo, losses exceed UAH 5 million

In the Lviv region, law enforcement uncovered an organized scheme for the manufacture and sale of counterfeit batteries under the DURACELL brand that operated during 2024–2025, the Office of the Prosecutor General reported.

According to the investigation, three members of the group imported more than 1.4 million unbranded battery cells into Ukraine, after which, using specialized equipment, they applied markings of well-known trademarks, including DURACELL, and sold them as original products.

Investigators determined that illegal DURACELL branding was applied to at least 119.2 thousand batteries, and the amount of damage to the rights holder exceeds UAH 5 million.

Three suspects have been notified of suspicion under Part 3 of Article 229 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine — for the illegal use of a sign for goods and services, committed by prior conspiracy of a group of persons, which caused damage of an especially large scale.

The pre-trial investigation is ongoing; proceedings are being carried out, in particular, on the basis of a request from DURACELL BATTERIES BVBA.

“Note that the protection of the rights of investors, international business and intellectual property is one of the priorities, since such violations harm not only individual companies but also fair competition and the investment climate in Ukraine,” the Office of the Prosecutor General said.

Previously we wrote:

• World brands, an underground workshop and cement inside: a new level of agro-fraud in Mykolaiv region
• Counterfeit worth half a million: a ton of fake alcohol and tens of thousands of cigarettes found in Mykolaiv region
• Tried to lose weight — nearly died: Mykolaiv Ozempic shipment seized
• Up to five years’ imprisonment: a Mykolaiv resident will stand trial for producing counterfeit alcohol