The SSU continues to counter organized crime that poses a threat to Ukraine’s state security. In a large-scale special operation in Ivano-Frankivsk region, the SSU dismantled a criminal group that terrorized locals and seized property.

The items seized from the gang include anti-tank grenade launchers, firearms with optical sights and silencers as well as rounds of ammunition of various calibers.

The leaders of the criminal group sought to spread their influence. To do this, they intimidated people and extorted money. In case the victims refused to pay, the gangsters used violence and death threats.

The SSU established that the group seized a state-owned economic entity in the region. They used its administrative premises as ‘headquarters’ to coordinate illegal activities.

The criminal group consisted of over 20 members including individuals previously convicted for serious crimes.

According to the investigation, they imposed a ‘tribute’ on locals. The criminals attacked civilians using weapons and inflicting grave bodily injuries.

The law enforcement conducted 50 searches and seized:

• 2 anti-tank grenade launchers,
• over 20 items of firearms,
• 2 RGD-5 grenades,
• over 6,000 rounds of ammunition of various calibers,
• optical sights and silencers,
• smoke bombs,
• bulletproof vests and communication equipment,
• proceeds of crime.

The seized items have been sent for forensic examination.

The organizers and active members of the group have been notified of suspicion of crimes under Articles of the CCU:

• 189.4 (extortion committed as part of an organized group),
• 289.3 (unlawful appropriation of a vehicle),
• 357.1 (theft, misappropriation, extortion of documents, stamps, seals, their appropriation by fraud or abuse of office or damage to them).

Two leaders of the group were additionally notified of suspicion under Article 255-1.1 (establishment or spread of criminal influence) of the CCU.

The court is to choose the measure of restraint. The investigation is underway.

The law enforcement agencies are establishing sources of weapons and ammunition for criminals.

The SSU Office in Ivano-Frankivsk region carried out the operation together with the National Police under the supervision of Ivano-Frankivsk Regional Prosecutor’s Office.