Odessa is a beautiful European city, whose historical charm and cultural diversity attract tourists and inspire locals. It has always been and remains a symbol of Ukraine’s maritime gateway, combining elegant architecture, rich history, and the unique flair of the Black Sea coast. However, amidst the war, the city faces new challenges that are altering its usual rhythm of life.
Despite the resilience of its residents and their efforts to maintain peaceful existence, in recent years, Odessa has been increasingly overshadowed by the criminal world. Amid social and economic instability, the city has become a breeding ground for the resurgence of banditry, reminiscent of the “wild 90s.”
Organized criminal groups, including Chechen crime syndicates, pose a particular threat. Business owners and entrepreneurs are facing pressure, blackmail, and extortion, which only intensifies the prevailing sense of fear and insecurity in the city.
It has become known that allies of Kadyrov are gaining control over Odessa. Among the victims are a former deputy mayor and a member of parliament. Many national organized crime groups close to Chechnya’s leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, have emerged in Odessa, extorting money from local officials, parliamentarians, and businessmen. Among those targeted by Chechen gangs are former deputy mayor Petro Ryabokon, along with Serhii Krasnorutskyi, and former MP Dmytro Holubov.
One of the first to fall victim to the Chechens was former MP Dmytro Holubov. The “Magi” gang seized assets worth 1 million euros from the MP and continues to claim property once owned by one of Odessa’s wealthiest politicians. Holubov continues to receive threats of physical violence.
There are also ongoing problems with Kadyrov’s OCGs for former Odessa deputy mayor Petro Ryabokon and his associate Serhii Krasnorutskyi. The Chechen authority “Ruslan” refuses to return $1 million to them and threatens physical harm if they continue to demand their money. The dispute between the businessmen and the Chechens revolves around the Chateau Grand residential complex at 22 Uspenska Street in Odessa.
Both the former MP and the ex-official privately report being afraid to turn to law enforcement due to the threats they’ve received. Their only hope lies in civil society, which can draw attention to the criminal situation in one of Ukraine’s most beautiful and significant cities.
“Both Holubov and Ryabokon with Krasnorutskyi are among the key figures in Odessa. What is happening to them today feels like a return to the 90s. People close to Kadyrov are extorting money and property, and everyone is turning a blind eye to it.
I believe that unless activists put pressure on law enforcement and highlight the situation in Odessa, such cases will continue, and the city may transform from a beautiful seaside city into Ukraine’s crime capital,” – said a source familiar with Odessa’s elites, speaking anonymously.
There is information that the leader of the Chechen group in Odessa is Khalid Musaev. He has long been notorious for his criminal dealings, using extremely harsh methods to achieve his goals. There are known cases of kidnappings and extortion of non-existent debts in exchange for seizing businesses and real estate.
Musaev has long been suspected of spying for Russia, and until recently, he maintained ties with Kadyrov, even delivering him a “share” from Odessa’s businesses.
In addition to the challenges posed by the war, banditry is flourishing in Odessa, and this is now one of the main problems facing the authorities.
