In Kherson region, the SSU exposed a criminal group that extorted money from a local businessman threatening him with physical violence. The racketeers were caught ‘red-handed’ while receiving UAH 1.2 mln (USD 45,000) from their victim.

The SSU identified that the group consisted of Ukrainians and natives of Armenia. They extorted UAH 1.2 million from a local farmer. If the entrepreneur paid, they promised not to harm him and his family.

As the entrepreneur refused to pay, the extortionists beat him up and took his car. Then they demanded to sign the car over to their accomplices. To prevent the businessman from going to the police, the racketeers began to threaten his family members.

Eventually, the victim contacted the SSU and, under the operatives’ control, handed over the said sum to the perpetrators. All members of the group were detained ‘red-handed’.

The investigators are preparing notices of suspicion of extortion. The court is to decide on the measure of restraint.

The SSU Office in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea carried out the operation.