The SSU is systemically fighting against organised crime, which is trying to infiltrate the Defence Forces amidst the ongoing war.

As a result of a special operation in Lviv oblast, the law enforcement dismantled a gang of racketeers, organised by two former criminals who tried to conceal their past and enlisted to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

After enrolling in one of the military units, they left the unit without authorization and started extorting money from citizens.

Hiding behind the status of military personnel, the offenders created artificial conflict situations and extorted money from victims for settling the ‘conflict’.

The SSU documented the racketeers extort USD 4,000 from a demobilized AFU serviceman.

If victims refused to pay, the extortionists threatened them with violence.

As a result of the operation, the law enforcement detained both racketeers ‘red-handed’ after they received part of the money from the victim.

The detained individuals have been notified of suspicion under Article 189.4 of the CCU (extortion under martial law).

The investigation is ongoing. The suspects are facing up to 12 years in prison.

The SSU Office in Lviv region carried out the operation jointly with the National Police under the procedural supervision of the Military Prosecutor’s Office.