Between 1989 and mid-1993, Russia went through social and economic upheaval. The transition from a socialist planned economy to unregulated market relations, the collapse of the Soviet Union, and the paralysis of state power created the conditions for the explosive growth of organized criminal groups (OCGs).
Main features of the period
- The collapse of the USSR and economic reforms: reforms aimed at transitioning to a market economy began, which weakened state structures and oversight bodies. The economic reforms were carried out in a legal vacuum, which fostered the flourishing of criminal activity. Laws couldn't keep pace with crime, and the salaries of Interior Ministry officers couldn't keep pace with rising prices
- The rise of organized criminal groups: after the collapse of state institutions, numerous OCGs began to form, engaging in illegal activity across various spheres. Their main areas of activity included racketeering, extortion, arms and drug trafficking, smuggling, and control over commercial structures.
- Racketeering and extortion: one of the most widespread forms of criminal activity was the "roof" – racketeering, where entrepreneurs were forced to pay for business "protection". Due to the weakness of state structures and the absence of legal regulation, many entrepreneurs were forced to agree to such terms.
- Conflicts between groups: as the number of OCGs grew, a struggle began for control over lucrative sectors and territories. This led to armed clashes and bloody showdowns between rival groups.
- Ties to power and corruption: given the weak legal system, many criminal groups sought to establish ties with representatives of the authorities, law enforcement, and business. Bribery, graft, and corruption became commonplace, allowing criminals to avoid punishment and strengthen their positions.
The largest organized criminal groups of Moscow
- Solntsevskaya OCG – one of the most influential groups, controlling a significant share of the capital's criminal business.
- Orekhovskaya OCG – a brutal gang specializing in contract killings and extortion.
- Lyuberetskaya OCG – a major group from the Moscow region with strong influence in Moscow.
- Taganskaya OCG – one of the oldest Moscow gangs, operating since Soviet times.
- Izmailovskaya OCG – an influential group controlling a number of markets and enterprises.
In the early 1990s dozens of smaller groups also operated in Moscow: the Sevastopolskaya, Mazutkinskaya, Lazanskaya, Luzhnikovskaya, and others.
Conclusion
The period from 1989 to mid-1993 became a time of formation and strengthening of organized criminal groups in Russia. Amid the transition period, weakened state power, and insufficient legal regulation, OCGs became one of the main threats to the country's public and economic security. The fight against organized crime during this period was extremely difficult, and its consequences were felt for a long time after the situation in the country stabilized.