Analysts at ubr.ua found that about 50% of Czech cars with foreign registration located in Ukraine may be seized, and their owners may be held liable. The reason is that these vehicles are on Interpol's international wanted list. Mostly, these are premium models — Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Land Rover, and BMW, whose cost ranges from $8,000 to $50,000 (mainly manufactured in 2010-2020). Such cars make up about half of all "euro plates" from the Czech Republic.
As it turned out, Ukrainians buying used cars in the Czech Republic often encounter a fraudulent scheme. After the car passes to the new owner, the old owners often file a theft report with the police. Their goal is to receive an insurance payout. Proving that the deal actually took place is quite difficult: most often, the process is limited to handing over the keys and registration certificate in exchange for money, without any paperwork (this is how deals with "euro plates" are usually concluded).
As a result, when trying to register the car at a service center, the Interpol database triggers, the vehicle is confiscated, and criminal proceedings are initiated against the new owner.
In such circumstances, experts advise hiring a lawyer immediately. They note that there are chances to defend your rights and get the car back, but you should be prepared for court proceedings that may take more than a year.
Earlier, AvtoPortal already reported on difficulties with customs clearance of cars brought into the country by so-called "camels".
Recall, the preferential period for customs clearance started on June 15 and will last 180 days. On average, legalizing a car under this program costs 35-40 thousand hryvnias.
