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

Lithuanian authorities have dismantled an armed criminal group involved in kidnapping and other serious crimes, including a demand for a 100,000 euro ransom, LRT reports.

The Vilnius County Police, in cooperation with the Vilnius Regional Prosecutor’s Office and the Lithuanian Police Anti-Terrorist Operations Unit Aras, uncovered the organised criminal group following a report on March 4. The group had abducted a man in Pagiriai, Vilnius District, using physical force to place him in the trunk of a VW Touran before fleeing.

Investigators later found tracking devices hidden in the victim’s 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 at a pre-rented recreational facility in Trakai District, where the gang demanded a 100,000 euro ransom from his relatives.

After 18 hours of coordinated efforts, the Aras unit conducted a rapid operation, freeing the hostage and detaining three suspects at the scene. Further raids in June led to the arrest of additional accomplices. A total of over ten individuals have been detained in connection with the case.

During 27 searches at residences and vehicles, authorities seized firearms, narcotic and psychotropic substances, and other evidence. The suspects face charges including unlawful deprivation of liberty, extortion, fraud, document forgery, and illegal possession of narcotics.

The pre-trial investigation continues under the supervision of the Vilnius Regional Prosecutor’s Office, aiming to identify all involved parties.