The National Police of Ukraine has successfully dismantled the operations of an individual overseeing criminal structures in the southern part of the country. This individual, known as 'Naum', played a pivotal role in constructing a criminal network in Mykolaiv, Odesa, and Kherson regions. His influence extended over criminal circles and prisons, where he appointed 'watchdogs' and managed the 'black accounting'.

Naum was recognized among Russian 'thieves in law', including figures like 'Shakro Molodoy' and others. Under their patronage, he reported on his activities and allocated a portion of criminal proceeds to maintain the criminal organization. Through these connections, he earned the status of 'polozhenets', granting him the right to influence criminal cases in Ukrainian correctional facilities.

Investigators from the Main Investigation Department of the National Police documented his illegal activities and conducted 50 searches across four regions of Ukraine. As a result of the special operation, Naum was arrested.

The investigation revealed numerous episodes of criminal influence, including attempts of raiding an agricultural enterprise. A businessman who refused to comply with Naum's demands was threatened with a demand for $550,000 or the transfer of assets.

Police also documented abuses in pre-trial detention centers, where an inmate was intimidated and extorted for money. Under pressure, he was forced to transfer over 86,000 hryvnias.

Naum has been charged with establishing and spreading criminal influence and extortion. He is in custody, facing sanctions that could lead to up to 15 years of imprisonment.

These actions were carried out in collaboration with the State Criminal-Executive Service of Ukraine, with the Prosecutor General's Office overseeing the investigation.