The SSU has detained organizers of a transnational crime ring that terrorized and intimidated residents of Kyiv region.

The group was headed by a crime boss ‘Leshiy’, involved in numerous raider attacks on Kyiv enterprises.

Another two organizers are russian citizens, natives of the North Caucasus. One of them is under NSDC sanctions.

Their activities could have led to destabilization of the situation in the capital region, which would play into the enemy’s hands.

In Kyiv, the criminals acted under the guise of two volunteer formations.

According to the investigation, they systematically extorted money from local entrepreneurs, and in case of refusal, used psychological pressure, violence, death threats and destroyed property.

Over 10 episodes of arson of the victims’ cars and real estate and infliction of serious bodily harm have been recorded.

The gangsters directed the proceeds of crime to the so-called ‘common fund’, which at the time of the search amounted to USD 354,000.

The SSU detained ‘Leshyi’, two russians and three other active members of the criminal organization when they were extorting USD 80,000 from a local businessman.

During the searches at the suspects’ homes, the law enforcement seized material evidence of the crimes. Six gang members have been notified of suspicion under the Articles of the CCU:

• 255.1, 255.2 (creation, management of a criminal community or criminal organization, as well as participation in it);
• 28.4, 189.4 (extortion);
• 28.4, 194.2 (intentional destruction or damage to property).

Court is to decide on custody as a measure of restraint.

The suspects’ actions will, probably, be also qualified under the Article 255-1 of the CCU (establishment or spread of criminal influence).

The investigation is ongoing to bring to justice all those involved in the activity of the criminal group.

The SSU carried out the special operation jointly with Kyiv Police investigators under the procedural supervision of Kyiv City Prosecutor’s Office.