MP apprehends Russian ringleader behind 645 Million euro scam

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s Public Ministry, backed by the National Police and other state investigative bodies, has apprehended Sergei Berezin, a Russian national also known as Paul Bergholts. He stands accused of leading an international criminal syndicate involved in defrauding over 645 million euros through fraudulent investments in medicinal cannabis cultivation.

Berezin’s arrest, conducted for extradition purposes, followed judicial warrants and searches in La Altagracia province. This action was prompted by an international legal assistance request from Spanish authorities, who, aided by Europol, Eurojust, and law enforcement agencies from the US and UK, were investigating the multi-million-dollar scam.

Responding to the assistance plea, specialized prosecutor’s offices formed a collaborative team with National Police and other agencies. Through meticulous intelligence efforts, the team located Berezin in a Bayahibe tourist complex.

Subsequent to obtaining judicial authorization, raids were conducted on three apartments linked to Berezin, leading to his apprehension pursuant to a Supreme Court-issued extradition warrant.

During the operation, significant amounts of cash in various currencies, firearms magazines, passports with suspected false information, electronic devices, an SUV, and portions of what appeared to be marijuana were seized. Additionally, various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, USDT, TRX, and Ethereum, totaling approximately USD$55,996.86, were confiscated.

The operation, involving over fifty National Police members, including specialized tactical units and explosives experts, was carried out meticulously. A hearing on April 15th will address the Public Ministry’s request for coercive measures against the accused.