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The Shadowy World of Russian Prisons

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The Thieves in Law

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The Enforcers and Brigadiers

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The Foot Soldiers and Caste System

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Tattoos and Symbols

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The Ever-changing Hierarchy

Certainly, the criminal hierarchy in Russian prisons is a complex and structured system that has evolved over time. In these harsh and challenging environments, inmates have developed a distinct social order that is often based on a combination of criminal reputation, personal strength, and loyalty. Here's a description of the typical criminal hierarchy in Russian prisons:

Thieves in Law (Vory v Zakone): At the pinnacle of the Russian prison hierarchy are the "Thieves in Law." These are highly respected and seasoned criminals who have earned their status through a strict code of conduct, demonstrating exceptional criminal skills, and serving significant prison sentences. They govern the criminal world within prisons and have their own set of rules and traditions.

Enforcers (Obshchak): Below the Thieves in Law are the Enforcers or "Obshchak." They are responsible for maintaining order and enforcing the decisions made by the higher-ups. Enforcers are usually physically strong and assert dominance through their ability to handle conflicts within the prison population.

Brigadiers (Brigadir): The next tier consists of Brigadiers, who are leaders of smaller criminal groups or brigades within the prison. These groups often form along ethnic or regional lines, and the Brigadiers act as intermediaries between the Thieves in Law and the general prison population.

Foot Soldiers (Patsany): At the bottom of the hierarchy are the Foot Soldiers or "Patsany." These are the ordinary prisoners who follow the orders of the higher-ups. They may join forces with a specific brigade for protection or support.

Caste System: Russian prisons also have a caste system that divides inmates based on their crimes. For example, white-collar criminals may form their own separate social circles within the prison, distinct from those who have committed violent crimes.

Tattoos and Symbols: The criminal hierarchy is often visually represented through tattoos. Inmates use specific symbols and tattoos to signify their status, crimes committed, and affiliations within the prison hierarchy.

It's important to note that this description provides a general overview, and variations exist across different prisons and regions in Russia. The Russian prison system is dynamic, and the hierarchy can shift based on various factors, including changes in leadership and external influences.

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