Ten men are on trial in Karaganda, Kazakhstan, after being accused of running an extortion scheme that forced victims to take out loans and hand over the money.

The defendants, aged between 22 and 34 and reportedly from Shakhtinsk, are facing charges as a high-profile court case nears its conclusion. Prosecutors say the group targeted local residents through threats, pressure, and blackmail, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

According to investigators, victims were coerced into applying for bank loans, while the suspects kept the funds for rented cars and entertainment. The scheme involved tens of millions of tenge.

The arrests took place two years ago, and prosecutors are now seeking prison terms ranging from four to twelve years depending on each defendant’s role.

The accused deny wrongdoing, while the prosecution says victim testimony has remained consistent throughout the investigation and court proceedings.