Four arrested in Kumanovo in operation against suspected loan‑sharking group

Four people were arrested in Kumanovo during a police operation targeting a group suspected of running a loan‑sharking racket, authorities said. Among those detained is the suspected ringleader, Dragan Petrovski, known as "Shutka."

Police carried out searches at several locations across the city, including a currency exchange office and a notary's premises, while investigators are checking for possible links between those sites and the group. Unofficial reports indicate that cash, vehicles and documents connected to the suspects were seized during the raids.

Prosecutor's office: coordinated operation, charges being investigated

“A public prosecutor from the Basic Public Prosecutor's Office for Prosecution of Organized Crime and Corruption is coordinating actions by police officers from the Department for Suppression of Organized and Serious Crime at the Ministry of Interior. Based on warrants obtained from the competent public prosecutor's office, several searches are being carried out to secure evidence in connection with the criminal offenses of ‘extortion’, ‘money laundering and other proceeds of crime’ and ‘negligent performance of duty’. Upon full completion of the operation we will duly inform the public,” the Prosecutor's Office said.

According to unofficial sources, the suspects are alleged to have used threats, violence and blackmail to extort money from victims over an extended period in Kumanovo. The investigation is ongoing and authorities said they will release further information once the operation is complete.

Police and the prosecutor's office are continuing evidence collection and will determine whether additional arrests or charges are necessary as the case develops.

Photo: press material from the event