Armed gang detained after kidnapping and 100,000 euro ransom demand

Lithuanian authorities have dismantled an organized criminal group involved in kidnapping and other serious crimes, with suspects demanding a 100,000 euro ransom for a hostage, LRT.lt and BNS report.

Vilnius County Police, in cooperation with the Vilnius Regional Prosecutor’s Office and the anti-terrorist unit Aras, conducted a large-scale operation that led to the arrest of more than 10 suspects. Searches uncovered firearms, drugs, and evidence linked to the crimes.

The investigation began on March 4 after reports that a group of individuals had abducted a man in Pagiriai, Vilnius District. The victim was forced into the trunk of a VW Touran and taken to an unknown location. Tracking devices were later found in his vehicle, indicating premeditation.

The suspects attempted to destroy evidence by burning the car used in the kidnapping in the Širvintos District. The victim was held in a pre-rented holiday home in Trakai District, where the gang demanded 100,000 euros from his relatives for his release.

After 18 hours of coordinated efforts, the Aras unit raided the location, freeing the hostage and arresting three suspects on the scene. Further operations in June led to additional arrests and the seizure of firearms, narcotics, psychotropic substances, and incriminating documents during 27 searches.

More than 10 individuals now face charges, including unlawful deprivation of liberty, extortion, fraud, document forgery, and drug-related offenses. The pre-trial investigation continues under the supervision of the Vilnius Regional Prosecutor’s Office.