The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has confirmed the arrest of several officials from the Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support (TCRSS) in Odesa, who are accused of extorting money from local residents.
According to the agency’s press service, an organized criminal group was dismantled, comprising TCRSS employees who allegedly demanded payments from individuals under the threat of violence. Victims were reportedly coerced into compliance with threats of being sent to the front lines.
Investigators revealed that the extortion activities occurred within a service vehicle belonging to the TCRSS, where victims were forcibly taken. SBU operatives, supported by special forces, apprehended the suspects during an ongoing extortion attempt involving another local resident.
During the arrest, the suspects resisted law enforcement, prompting SBU special forces to fire at the tires of the vehicle in which the suspects attempted to flee. The investigation indicates that the group operated under the guidance of a TCRSS employee who identified potential victims based on their financial situations and movements.
The suspects used two service vans for their operations: one was used to detain victims, while the other monitored the surroundings. The SBU has stated that all arrested individuals will face charges under Article 189, Part 4 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which pertains to extortion causing significant financial harm, particularly when carried out by an organized group during a state of war.
Local reports previously indicated that during the SBU operation, officials from the Peresyp TCRSS and a district police officer were also apprehended. The arrests were accompanied by a chase and gunfire.
Sources indicated that the group demanded $30,000 from a former serviceman who had an official deferment. The victim was allegedly forced into a minibus and threatened with a weapon. During searches of the suspects’ premises, law enforcement recovered bats, brass knuckles, knives, and unregistered firearms.
In response to these developments, the Ukrainian Ground Forces announced the suspension of the leadership of the Odesa TCRSS and the head of the Peresyp TCRSS. Additionally, a service investigation has been initiated.
The SBU has arrested TCRSS officials in Odesa for extortion, revealing a criminal operation that targeted local residents. The arrests follow reports of violent coercion and threats against victims.