Gang members extorting money from servicemen detained in Transbaikal
CHITA. July 29 (Interfax) - Police have detained a gang in Chita which extorted money from servicemen, the press office of the regional Interior Ministry department said in a statement.
"The organized criminal group which included mostly residents of the North Caucasus and South Caucasus operated in the Transbaikal territory. While threatening violence, gang members extorted money from servicemen of the Russian army. The law breakers acted boldly and aggressively and beat up contract soldiers severely," the document said.
According to the information of the Interior Ministry department, during investigative proceedings 16 gang leaders and active participants were identified. Some of them have prior convictions. Officers of the regional Interior Ministry department for fighting organized crime and special purpose unit prepared and held quickly operation to detain the suspects, the document said.
"For now, fifteen citizens have filed statements with the police. The police are identifying servicemen who fell victim to the extortionists," the statement said.
As of now, all gang members have been detained and are in a detention facility, a criminal case has been opened.