vlad.tribnet.com / Issue #153 / Crime watch / Reading article...

Uh-oh: Gang leader slips away before trial

The krai court began hearing the case of Nakhodka criminal group VAPS on Oct. 24. Eighteen gang members, including its leader, were arrested in early 1994 after an extensive investigation by the Nakhodka Criminal Investigation Department, the Federal Security Bureau, and the Krai Prosecutor’s Office. Since then, however, the gang’s leader escaped and remains unfound.

Stray mines found near Pokrovka settlement

Police discovered 10 antipersonnel mines 30 miles from the Pokrovka settlement in the week of Oct 20. Officials reported that the mines didn’t work and posed no threat to local residents. On the same day, police found a large back of spent bullets near Bolshoi Kamen, which was probably going to be sold, officials said.

Trade in endangered species rises

Russia’s illegal trade of plant and animal endangered species is on the rise, with profits in the millions of dollars, Far Eastern customs agents reported on Oct 22. Officials said that the number of stuffed animals seized at Vladivostok customs in one year exceeded Switzerland’s total for a six-year period.