Officers of the SBU Main Department of Internal Security exposed a group of racketeers in Rivne region. It is documented that the participants extorted USD 6,500 of a non-existent debt from a victim.

SBU officers established that in case of non-payment, the offenders threatened a local resident with physical violence. Fearing for his life and health, the victim provided the suspect with USD 5,000.

According to the pre-trial investigation, the group of extorters was organized by a Ukrainian citizen. He established illegal sale, purchase, shipment, transportation, processing of amber in Rivne region.

Investigative actions against other involved individuals are underway.  

Law enforcement officers detained one of the group members in accordance with Art. 208 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine. He received a suspicion notice for extortion.  A type of detention is to be chosen.

During the searches of the detainee’s residence, a car and other items with evidence of illegal activity were seized.

The operation was carried out jointly with the National Police in Rivne region.