The criminal underworld is adapting to the conditions of a tough quarantine in Ukraine: while the number of street crimes has decreased, new frauds with personal protective equipment appeared and many criminals moved online, Chief of the National Police of Ukraine Ihor Klymenko has said in an exclusive interview to Interfax-Ukraine.
The number of street crimes (theft and robberies) in Ukraine dropped by 19-30%, and the number of road accidents also reduced during the quarantine, he said.
“I think this is a temporary phenomenon, criminals often adapt. They are slightly transforming due to the fact that people stay home. For instance, frauds with face masks, disinfectants, and swindling money out of people,” he said.
Klymenko also said that many criminals have “moved online.” In addition, clandestine drug laboratories intensified their activities, which is a sign of an increase of demand for their products.
“The majority of burglars are out of work now,” Klymenko said.
