Russian mafia sets up shop

RUSSIAN gangsters, including ex-KGB agents, have infiltrated Australia, establishing extortion, gun-running and prostitution rackets, Australian Federal Police say.

They are involved in fraud, drugs and blackmail, according to an AFP and Australian Crime Commission report obtained by The Sunday Telegraph.

Renowned for their audacity and efficiency, Russian criminals have established a foothold in Australia, the report reveals.

Some of those involved were once members of the KGB, where they learned skills such as debugging, computer hacking and strategic recruitment.

Their activities in Australia are centred on Sydney, especially Bondi, and the Gold Coast.