A 51-year-old dual citizen of Russia and Israel, Rostislav Panev, who is suspected of playing a crucial role in the development of the notorious LockBit ransomware gang, has been handed over to the United States from Israel, as announced by the Department of Justice on Thursday.

Panev’s arrest in Israel took place in December, making him the third individual apprehended for involvement in LockBit. Following his arrest, he remained in Israel awaiting extradition proceedings.

According to prosecutors, Panev worked as a developer for the LockBit ransomware group from its inception in 2019 until at least February 2024. He, along with other LockBit developers, was responsible for designing the gang’s malware and maintaining its infrastructure. They also shared the ill-gotten gains with the gang’s affiliates, who carried out cyberattacks and extorted victims, as stated by the DOJ.

United States Attorney John Giordano warned, “If you are involved in the LockBit ransomware conspiracy, the United States will track you down and hold you accountable.”