Operation "Carthage": new criminal organization exposed

NABU and SAPO have exposed a criminal organization whose members established the systematic provision of illicit benefits to senior law enforcement officials in exchange for the unhindered operation of fraudulent call centers and other illegal businesses.

According to the investigation, the organization was led by an individual with multiple prior convictions who recruited serving senior officials of the Security Service of Ukraine, the Office of the Prosecutor General, and the National Police, as well as members of the criminal underworld.

Under the protection of law enforcement, members of the organization facilitated the operation of fraudulent call centers targeting Ukrainian and foreign citizens, the sale of narcotics, as well as the illegal production of counterfeit cigarettes and forged foreign currency.

In addition, they orchestrated planned assaults, kidnappings, and the infliction of bodily injuries in the interests of the criminal organization.

According to the investigation, the criminal organization used corrupt connections within law enforcement agencies to shield its illegal activities and generate shadowy profits.

At least 12 individuals have been implicated in the organization.