In Udmurtia, two car dealership network owners detained on fraud and extortion charges
Authorities in Udmurtia moved swiftly when police detained two owners of a local car dealership network on suspicions of fraud and extortion against customers. The information was conveyed by MIA Media, which confirmed that the investigation is active and ongoing. During the searches tied to the case, law enforcement seized a total of four vehicles, two shotguns, two traumatic pistols, various digital devices, and cash amounting to about 1.5 million rubles. The seizures occurred at three separate car dealership locations and at the residences linked to the suspects. The Interior Ministry issued a formal statement outlining the scope of the operation and the items recovered, underscoring the seriousness of the alleged crimes.
The police described at least two predatory episodes that illustrate the alleged scheme. In one instance, a customer who was repaying a car loan sought documentation that would confirm payment status. Instead, he was informed that the loan had not been settled and, under threat of violence, was forced to hand over 1.3 million rubles. In another case, a buyer provided an advance payment of 150,000 rubles without obtaining necessary documents. After reviewing the sales contract, the buyer realized the car’s price was higher than expected and did not receive a refund. These episodes, if proven in court, would demonstrate a pattern of coercion and deception targeting customers who trusted the dealerships with their financing and purchases.
The two detained businessmen face stringent legal scrutiny as the investigation proceeds. One of them has been placed under formal arrest, while the other remains under house arrest as authorities continue gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and inspecting financial records. The case has drawn attention to the practices within some car dealership networks, highlighting the potential risks customers face when financing vehicles and signing sales agreements. Prosecutors have promised to pursue all legal avenues to determine accountability for the alleged wrongdoing and to recover any ill-gotten funds for affected clients.
Meanwhile, an unrelated note from the region mentions a separate incident in Perm where a man allegedly stole a truck along with an electric scooter that was not accompanied by a driver. This report appears to be from a different jurisdiction and does not appear to be connected to the Udmurtia case. Authorities in Perm are pursuing its own investigation to determine details and possible charges related to the theft, separate from the ongoing case in Udmurtia.
Officials emphasize that investigations of this kind prioritize due process, the protection of customers, and the fair application of law. Updates will be provided as investigators piece together a complete timeline of events, verify accounts, and determine how the alleged extortion and fraud were carried out within the car dealership network. The public is reminded to remain cautious when dealing with financing, documentation, and vehicle purchase agreements, and to report any suspicious practices to authorities promptly. At this stage, the case illustrates how consumer protections come under stress in high-stakes markets where large purchases and loans are involved.