Gang Involved in Extortion Arrested

Five individuals have been arrested and are currently in custody. Each could face up to 12 years in prison with asset confiscation.

The criminal group was uncovered by the Security Service of Ukraine in the Odessa region in conjunction with police investigators under the guidance of the Specialized Prosecutor's Office.

According to law enforcement, a 26-year-old man with a criminal record headed the group, which targeted citizens for extortion. He involved three other men aged between 22 and 33, two of whom have prior convictions for property crimes and drug offenses.

The group's leader searched for victims and coordinated actions with his accomplices, who threatened violence to demand money for fictitious debts. If victims refused, they would be pursued.

Police documented instances of extortion involving three local residents. One was forced to pay $600, of which the criminals collected $300. Another lost 8000 hryvnias and was required to make weekly payments.

The criminals were apprehended while receiving $7000 from the last victim.

During authorized searches, investigators seized mobile phones and SIM cards used by the criminals. Illegally obtained money from the last transaction was also collected as evidence.

After gathering sufficient evidence, law enforcement notified the suspects of their charges regarding extortion committed by an organized group during martial law.

The maximum penalty for these offenses is up to 12 years of imprisonment.

The court has imposed preventive measures in the form of detention without bail for the arrested individuals. Investigations are ongoing.