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A court in Karaganda has delivered a verdict against an organized criminal group of 10 individuals who preyed on local residents, particularly coal miners, through extortion and forced loan schemes.

Shakhtinsk Terrorized by Criminal Group

For several years, this group instilled fear and exerted pressure on residents of Shakhtinsk, extorting money through intimidation. Investigations revealed a pattern of coercion that significantly impacted the community.

Sentences Handed Down

The court found 8 of the accused guilty of extortion and fraud. They have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from 4 years and 8 months to 7 years, to be served in a penal colony. Two other individuals received suspended sentences. The convicted members of the group were between 22 and 34 years old and were not officially employed.

Forced Loans and Extortion

According to the prosecution's case, the group members did not limit their activities to simple extortion. They coerced victims into taking out loans, with the group members then appropriating the funds. A total of 14 individuals were recognized as victims in the case, including miners whose wages were seized. The criminal group reportedly spent the illicit gains on entertainment, luxury vehicles, and car rentals.

Due to the large number of defendants, the trial was conducted within a pre-trial detention center. The investigation spanned nearly two years, following high-profile arrests in the autumn of 2024. Despite the court's ruling, the convicted individuals have maintained their innocence. The court also noted that a significant portion of the damages incurred by the victims remains uncompensated.

This information was reported by the Infohub.kz news agency.