Five individuals have been charged with crimes related to extortion. They are currently in custody and could face up to 12 years of imprisonment along with asset confiscation.

The SBU officers in the Odesa region, in collaboration with the police, uncovered a criminal group under the guidance of the Specialized Prosecutor's Office.

According to law enforcement, a 26-year-old man with previous convictions for theft and robbery led this group. He recruited four men, also with criminal records, into the illegal activities.

The leader targeted potential victims and coordinated the extortion efforts via video and audio calls. The accomplices would confront victims, threatening them with violence if they refused to pay fabricated debts.

Police have documented instances of extortion involving three local residents. One was demanded to pay 600 dollars, of which 300 were obtained. Another lost 8000 hryvnias, while being pressured to make weekly payments. The third was presented with a fabricated debt of 10,000 dollars, resulting in an immediate seizure of 500 dollars and 8000 hryvnias.

The offenders were caught during the transaction of receiving 7000 dollars from the latest victim.

During authorized searches of their homes and the detention center, investigators seized mobile phones and other items confirming their criminal activities.

After gathering sufficient evidence, police notified the suspects of their charges under Article 189 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The maximum penalty is 12 years of imprisonment.

The court has selected a preventive measure of detention without the right to bail for the arrested individuals. The investigation is ongoing.