Four people prosecuted for loan sharking in Lyaskovets

Four people have been prosecuted for involvement in an organised criminal group for usury and racketeering. The group operated on the territory of Lyaskovets and other settlements in Veliko Turnovo region, the Specialised Prosecutor's Office announced on 28^th of June.

Five members of the group were detained on Wednesday during a joint operation of the regional directorate for combatting organised crime and the Specialised Prosecutor’s Office.

Searches of people, homes and cars were conducted during the investigation as well as interviews with witnesses and people who were affected by the criminal activity of the members in the group.

Approximately 40,000 BGN were found and seized, yellow metal jewelry, an illegally owned rifle, and many property papers believed to belong to debtors.

The evidence gathered so far indicates that the group has been in operation since January 2019. It provided "loans" to those in need in various amounts, with threats and aggressive actions being used. Penalty interests were also charged.