A scheme of extorting money uncovered at a penal institution in Zhytomyr

Countering criminal influence and ensuring law and order in penitentiary institutions remain important areas of activity for the State Penal Service of Ukraine.

Thanks to joint work by the investigative units of the North-Central Main Department of Justice, Zhytomyr Penal Institution No. 8 and the regional Department of Strategic Investigations of the National Police, the activities of a group of individuals involved in extorting funds from one inmate have been documented.

According to available information, a so-called “seen-it-all” (smyshlyany) who used his informal influence in the criminal environment is involved in organizing the illegal activity. The inmate was demanded 5 000 US dollars on the pretext of a nonexistent debt, accompanied by threats and physical pressure.

Within the framework of conducted operational and investigative measures with the support of the special unit “KORD” of the National Police in Zhytomyr region, a female person was detained while transferring 2 000 US dollars. At the same time, searches were conducted in the facility, during which mobile phones and a tablet were seized.

Four suspects were informed of suspicions under part 4 of article 189 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine — extortion.

The uncovering of this scheme became the result of coordinated interaction between investigative units, law enforcement agencies, and the special unit. The State Penal Service of Ukraine continues systematic work to detect and stop unlawful activity, prevent the establishment of criminal influence in institutions, and ensure the safety of persons held there.

State Penal Service of Ukraine