Suspected criminal-group recruiter remanded in Russia's Chelyabinsk region

A man suspected of heading a criminal group's subdivision has been detained and remanded in custody in Russia's Chelyabinsk region. The regional Federal Security Service said he recruited new members.

The detention formed part of existing criminal investigations and was supported by the National Guard. The FSB said the suspect sought recruits for extortion and other serious crimes.

He faces allegations of extortion, participation in a criminal community and participation in an extremist organization. A court has ordered him held in custody.

The FSB said the alleged leader, three subdivision heads and 11 active members had previously been detained in the case. Law enforcement officials link the investigation to the Artakovskiye group.