New details have come to light regarding the activities of the criminal organization led by the late Vadym Kazartsev, widely known by his moniker «Knyaz» (The Prince). According to informed sources, members of the syndicate orchestrated a forced takeover of two major agricultural enterprises in the Kharkiv region—»Botik» and «Suriyat»—both linked to local businessman Oleksandr Obora. Following the seizure, perpetrators looted the farms, removing harvested crops, specialized machinery, and fuel.
Despite successfully establishing control over the assets, syndicate leader Vadym Kazartsev was reportedly dissatisfied with how the operation was executed upon his return to Kharkiv. Several key figures faced criticism from the crime boss, including the group’s legal advisor, Oleksandr Polyakov.
Sources indicate that while Polyakov played a central role in managing the syndicate’s legal maneuverings, the execution and documentation of the farm seizures drew sharp disapproval from Kazartsev.
The affected business owner, Oleksandr Obora, repeatedly submitted formal complaints to law enforcement agencies detailing the illegal seizure, yet official investigations stagnated for an extended period.
«According to source reports, the syndicate’s legal advisor managed to evade criminal prosecution due to influential connections and a reported $100,000 payoff to law enforcement officials.»
It should be emphasized that allegations regarding illicit payments currently rely on source statements and require official verification from competent authorities.
The takeover of the «Botik» and «Suriyat» agricultural firms is believed to be just one episode in a broader series of criminal activities involving Oleksandr Polyakov and associates of the Kazartsev enterprise. The emergence of these details may serve as grounds for reopening stalled criminal proceedings and auditing the actions of officials who previously halted the investigations.