The SSU has neutralized a criminal group that intimidated and terrorized businessmen in Dnipropetrovsk region.

Members of the group extorted money from small and medium-sized businesses for ‘unhindered’ economic activity.

The weekly ‘tribute’ depended on the area of business, how big and profitable it is.

If victims refused to pay, the racketeers threatened them with physical violence and ‘slow’ death. If this did not work, they kidnapped the victims, took them to a deserted area and beat them.

They also threatened to steal their private property and kill their families.

In the course of the investigation, the SSU documented that the suspects had extorted almost one million hryvnia from a local businessman.

They took the man to Dnipro suburbs, held him in a car and threatened with physical violence if he did not pay.

The SSU detained the racketeers after they received part of the non-existent UAH 100,000 debt.

The gang’s leader tried to hide from the law enforcement after his accomplices were detained, but failed. The SSU found and apprehended him.

According to the investigation, the group was subordinate to a notorious crime lord and positioned themselves as the ‘force wing’ in his criminal hierarchy.

During the searches, the SSU seized mobile phones and records with evidence of the unlawful activity. Money, most likely proceeds of crime, was also found.

The gang’s organizer and two active members have been notified of suspicion under Article 189.4 of the CCU (extortion, committed by an organized group, under martial law).

The suspects are in custody and face up to 12 years in prison. The investigation is underway.

The operation was carried out by the SSU Office in Dnipropetrovsk region jointly with the National Police under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor’s Office.