Editor's Note: The collapse of the Soviet Union ignited a grab for money and power, as well as the emergence of new organized crime groups. Until gunned down on the streets on April 20, 1997, Odesa's "Karabas" -- real name Viktor Pavlovich -- was one of the most powerful in the Black Sea port of one million people.
ODESA – “Karabas,” the shadowy leader of one of Odesa’s largest organized crime clans, was shot and killed by unknown gunmen the morning of April 20, according to an Odesa police spokesman.
Investigators found the mob boss dead on the scene at the entrance of City
Steam Bath House Number 4 in central Odesa.
Eyewitnesses reportedly stated to
police that a lone assassin fired at least 20 shots from a Czech-made Skorpion
automatic pistol at the victim, whose real name police gave as Viktor Pavlovich.
A police press release stated that the killing of Pavlovich, 49, could mark the beginning of a new round of mob hits and counter-hits.
The Karabas group is primarly involved in drugs and smuggling, according to a police source.
Detectives have made a composite portrait of the killer based on witnesses’
descriptions. The police investigation continues.
To read more about Karabas and Ukraine’s gangs, go to this link.
