The Mellstroy Mafia emerged in the post-Soviet era during the 1990s, a time marked by political instability and economic turmoil in Russia. As the country transitioned from a communist regime to a market economy, various criminal organizations began to flourish, taking advantage of the chaos. The Mellstroy Mafia, primarily based in Moscow, capitalized on the burgeoning construction industry, allowing it to establish a significant foothold.
With construction projects often requiring substantial investment and regulatory approvals, the Mellstroy Mafia became deeply ingrained in local politics, using both bribery and intimidation to ensure their interests were protected. Over the years, they expanded their operations beyond construction, delving into various illegal activities such as extortion, money laundering, and drug trafficking.