Belgorod suspects tied to murders, extortion and kidnappings
Three individuals—Priest Stanislav Dementeev, a soldier named Igor Selyutin, and businessman Stepan Morozov—were taken into custody in the Belgorod region in connection with murders, kidnappings and extortion. Officials describe them as being connected to the criminal world, with alleged capacity to shield themselves from preliminary investigations and trials. They are also accused of coordinating with accomplices to create false evidence that would mislead investigators and cast doubt on their guilt.
According to investigators, the trio maintains extensive ties within a criminal network and could disappear from scrutiny while directing actions with others to manipulate outcomes and misrepresent their innocence. The accusations suggest a capability to orchestrate activities beyond the reach of ordinary law enforcement procedures.
In 2018, a disappearance case was opened in Belgorod and later transferred to the Main Investigative Department. Several episodes involving murder, kidnapping, disappearance and extortion were consolidated into a single proceeding concerning the suspects, forming a broad, interconnected criminal matter.
During the course of the inquiry, fingerprints were collected and a psychological assessment requested. Searches were conducted, items were seized, and witnesses were questioned as part of ongoing evidence gathering. Investigators indicate that the process continues with new materials coming to light and further examination of the facts.
In July, the Lipetsk priest’s son was imprisoned for attempting to join the Ukrainian Armed Forces prior to reaching the age of 17. This detail highlights the wider personal dimensions surrounding the public allegations and the varied paths individuals connected to the Belgorod case may have taken before or during the investigation.
Earlier reports allege that a priest asked a member of the congregation for a phone number and sent explicit photos of his wife. Such allegations are described as part of the broader scrutiny into conduct and trust within the community and the investigation into the case.
Authorities emphasize that the inquiry remains active and that updates may follow as new evidence is reviewed, more witnesses are questioned, and potential additional charges are considered. The case illustrates how prohibited conduct, if proven, can intersect with organized crime dynamics in the region and affect public safety and trust.