The SSU and the National Police have neutralized an organized criminal group that was terrorizing and intimidating the residents of Volyn region.

The criminals created fake conflicts with locals and then extorted money from them for "peaceful resolution of disputes".

SSU officers documented the fact of extortion of a UAH 120,000 (USD 3,195) non-existent debt from a wounded UAF grenade launcher who had returned from the front line for treatment and rehabilitation.

Having refused to pay, the serviceman was attacked by gang members. As a result, he suffered a head injury and spinal cord contusions.

The racketeers threatened the victim with physical violence in case of further resistance.

The SSU detained three members of the criminal group while they were receiving part of the money.

According to the investigation, the gang's organizer is a criminal serving a sentence in a penal colony in Volyn region for robbery.

He remotely involved three of his accomplices who had previously served prison terms for robbery, theft, and extortion.

The criminals used the money obtained by criminal means for their own needs and replenished common funds.

Currently, all four offenders have been served a notice of suspicion under Art. 189.4 of the CCU (extortion committed by an organized group under martial law, combined with causing grievous bodily harm).

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

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