Introduction to the Russian Mafia

1.

Introduction to the
Russian Mafia
The R ussian mafia, also known as the Bratva, is a powerful and deeply
entrenched criminal organization with roots tracing back to the Soviet era.
Operating in the shadows, this expansive network of gangsters controls a
wide range of illicit enterprises, from drug trafficking to money laundering.

2.

His torical Origins and Development
1
Emergence in the USSR
The Russian mafia first took shape during the Soviet era, exploiting the
weaknesses and corruption of the communist system.
2
Pos t-Soviet Expans ion
In the chaotic aftermath of the Soviet Union's collapse, the Bratva seized
new opportunities, rapidly expanding its reach and power.
3
Global Influence
Today, the Russian mafia has established a formidable international
presence, with tentacles stretching across Europe, Asia, and even North
America.

3.

Structure and Hierarchy of the
R us s ian Mafia
Vory v Zakone
At the top of the hierarchy
are the "Vory v Zakone," or
"Thieves-in-Law," the elite
ruling class of the Bratva.
Soldiers and
Enforcers
Specialis ts and
Facilitators
Below the Vory are the
foot soldiers and enforcers
who carry out the mafia's
criminal operations on the
ground.
Lawyers, accountants, and
other professionals help
the Russian mafia launder
money and evade law
enforcement.

4.

Criminal Activities and Enterprises
Extortion and Racketeering
Money Laundering
The Russian mafia engages in
widespread extortion, demanding
"protection" payments from businesses
and individuals.
The Bratva has become adept at
concealing the origins of its illicit profits
through complex financial schemes.
Drug Trafficking
Human Trafficking
The Russian mafia controls a significant
portion of the global drug trade,
trafficking in cocaine, heroin, and
synthetic opioids.
The Bratva is heavily involved in the
exploitation of vulnerable individuals,
including forced labor.

5.

Connections to R us s ian
Government and Politics
1
Infiltration of
Government
2
Corruption and
Bribery
3
Blurred L ines
The distinction
The Russian mafia
The Bratva routinely
between the Russian
has deep ties to high-
bribes and coerces
mafia and the
ranking officials,
government officials
Russian state has
enabling it to wield
to protect its criminal
become increasingly
significant political
enterprises.
blurred, with the two
influence.
often working in
tandem.

6.

Efforts to Combat the R us s ian
Mafia
International Cooperation
Law enforcement agencies from around the world are working together to
disrupt the Russian mafia's global operations.
As s et Seizure
Governments are increasingly targeting the Bratva's vast financial resources
by seizing and confiscating illicit assets.
L egal Press ure
Prosecutors are utilizing racketeering and money laundering laws to bring
high-profile members of the Russian mafia to justice.