In Kharkiv region, the SBU conducted a large-scale special operation and extirpated a powerful criminal group. It involved almost 50 people, including current law enforcement officers and individuals with combat experience.

Allegedly, the attackers blackmailed businessmen who provide funeral services. The group had a well-organized structure. Its members committed felonies and earned over UAH 1 m. (USD 37,037) per month.

They extorted money from local entrepreneurs threatening them with physical violence. The SBU documented damaging of the entrepreneurs’ personal property, in particular car arsons.

The group had a great influence on local authorities. SBU officers found that the officials of a utility company of Kharkiv City Council facilitated illegal activities.

During the searches, law enforcement confiscated large sums of money, draft records, weapons, ammunition, as well as National Police ID cards of current officers.

The SBU is going to serve suspicion notices of the creation of a criminal organization; extortion; obstruction of legitimate business activity.

The operation was carried out by the SBU Main Directorate for Combating Corruption and Organized Crime jointly with the SBU Main Investigation Department, CSO "A", SBU regional offices, under the supervision of the Prosecutor General's Office.