The SBU blocked activity of two organized criminal groups that kept businessmen in fear and terrorized citizens in different regions of Ukraine.

Thus, the law enforcement exposed four organizers and active members of the group that extorted money from the residents of Zakarpattia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kyiv and Lviv regions.

Some of the perpetrators were previously convicted of serious crimes. Allegedly the group extorted money from companies’ representatives. In case of non-payment of the “fee”, the offenders resorted to psychological harassment and threatened with violence.

The offenders extorted USD 100,000 from an entrepreneur from Zakarpattia.

Law enforcement officers detained three perpetrators in Uzhhorod while receiving another sum of money from the victim.

During the searches of the perpetrators' residences, firearms and ammunition were found. The law enforcement also exposed bank accounts where the group members kept money received from criminal activities.

Two organizers of the group were served a notice of suspicion of extortion.

The investigation is ongoing to prosecute all those involved.

The operation was conducted under supervision of Lviv Region Prosecutor's Office.

Also in city of Mukachevo, the SBU detained the leader of the group, which extorted money via telephone.

The offenders anonymously demanded people to repay non-existent debts. In case of non-payment of money, the offenders threatened the victims with violence.

Currently, one of the group members has been served a notice of suspicion of extortion.

The investigation is ongoing to prosecute other members of the groups.

The operation was conducted jointly with investigators of the Main Directorate of the National Police in the Zakarpattia region under supervision of the Regional Prosecutor's Office.