In Kyiv and Rivne regions, the SBU blocked activity of an organized group intimidating local residents and extorting money from businesspersons. SBU officers documented the facts of death threats and extortion of USD 30,000 from individuals.

During 17 searches of the perpetrators' residences and vehicles, the investigators found firearms, radio systems, balaclavas and illegally obtained money.

The law enforcement and the SBU CSO “A” detained two organizers and three active group members in the city of Varash, Rivne region and in the city of Kyiv.

Additionally, SBU officers seized bank cards and draft records, proving the illegal activities, and more than 16 kilos of illegally mined raw amber.

Allegedly, the gang consisted of five individuals, previously convicted for serious and particularly serious crimes. SBU officers established that the suspects created artificial conflicts in order to extort money from citizens, particularly businessmen. If they refused, the group members threatened the citizens with violence.

The group organizers sent money to the inmates who served sentences in penitentiaries of Rivne region. Furthermore, the offenders smuggled drugs and means of communication to the convicts for conducting the illegal business “outside”.

Reportedly, the two gang leaders took an active part in resolving “conflicts” between criminals.

The detainees received suspicion notices of extortion, creation of a criminal organization and preparation for crime, as well as establishment and dissemination of criminal influence. The custody without bail was chosen as type of detention.

Information about the involvement of detainees in other serious crimes is being checked.

The operation was carried out jointly with the Strategic Investigations Department of the National Police under the supervision of the Rivne Region Prosecutor's Office.