The SBU detained a group of extortionists led by the head of Ternopil State Tax Inspectorate.

Allegedly, the official and his son, the director of a local food company, demanded from the former employee to pay a non-existent debt (USD 40,000). The victim had to “repay” embezzlement of the property and products entrusted to him. The offenders involved two criminals to coerce the victim to “reimburse” the losses. In case of refusal, criminals threatened the man with physical violence.

The director of the enterprise was detained by the law enforcement immediately after receiving the second part of the “debt” in the amount of USD 10,000. At the same time, the SBU detained other offenders, in particular, the head of the Tax Inspectorate - in the office, and criminals - at their residences.

The issue of serving them a notice of suspicion of extortion is being decided.

The operation was conducted jointly with the Territorial Department of the State Bureau of Investigation in Lviv, under the legal supervision of Prosecutor's Office of Ternopil region.