Russian investigators have exposed a criminal gang responsible for forcing more than 20 women into prostitution across the Krasnoyarsk Krai and Novosibirsk regions. The group, consisting of 17 individuals aged between 17 and 38, was dismantled in Krasnoyarsk, according to DPA, citing the Russian Investigative Committee (Sledkom).
Authorities confirmed that the alleged leader of the gang has been taken into custody, while legal proceedings for the remaining suspects are ongoing. The gang, formed in 2018, reportedly targeted vulnerable women from poor socioeconomic backgrounds. In most cases, the victims’ identification documents were confiscated, and they were coerced into performing sexual services.
“These women were subjected to physical punishment and heavy financial penalties—often several times their potential earnings—for offenses such as trying to flee, refusing to engage in sex, or consuming alcohol,” Sledkom stated. The victims were also deprived of communication tools, making escape or seeking help nearly impossible.
Shockingly, most of the women did not receive any payment for their work, effectively rendering them modern-day slaves under the control of a highly organized criminal structure.
Investigators revealed that the network included around 40 members, covering various roles from drivers and accountants to a security team armed with knives and non-lethal weapons. The gang also had a dedicated “HR department” responsible for maintaining a database of both sex workers and their clients.
To operate covertly, the gang rented saunas, massage parlors, and private apartments to carry out the illicit activities. Within the organization, a strict disciplinary regime was enforced to maintain control over members and victims alike.
This case underscores the persistent and disturbing reality of human trafficking and exploitation in parts of Russia. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and that further arrests and charges may follow.
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