!exclusive! | Tariel Oniani Prime Crime Top

From "thief in law" to federal prison – his story is the blueprint of post-Soviet organized crime.

Organizational Structure and Modus Operandi Oniani’s organization reflects hallmarks of modern organized crime: a semi-formal hierarchy, loyalty enforced through violence and patronage, and an ability to embed itself in legitimate economies. Key operational features include: tariel oniani prime crime top

Oniani was arrested in at a luxury spa hotel. Georgia, eager to prove its law-and-order credentials, handed him over to Russian authorities. From "thief in law" to federal prison –

In July 2009, an attempt on Oniani’s life failed, but the ensuing firefight on a busy Moscow street killed two bodyguards. This triggered a violent purge. Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, infuriated by the public display of gang warfare, ordered the FSB and MVD to demolish the "thieves in law" movement. Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, infuriated by the public