The Security Service of Ukraine has announced the arrest in Izmail of a Russian agent who, according to the investigation, was planning to carry out car bombings targeting the Defence Forces near the administrative buildings of the Ukrainian military and law enforcement agencies. Law enforcement officials reported that they had foiled a series of planned terrorist attacks before the explosives could be planted and had seized the ready-made devices.
Briefly about the main points
- The SBU has reported that it has foiled a series of terrorist attacks in the Odesa region.
- The suspect is a 27-year-old woman from the Zhytomyr region.
- Investigators believe she was recruited via Telegram channels.
- During the search, two finished explosive devices and components were seized.
- The woman is being held in custody without the possibility of bail.
Recruitment and reconnaissance of potential targets
Pros. data According to the investigation, a 27-year-old woman from the Zhytomyr region came to the attention of the Russian security services via Telegram channels offering «easy money». After being recruited, she travelled to the port city, rented a flat and was given instructions on how to make three homemade explosive devices.
SBU It is alleged that the woman was conducting reconnaissance near defence ministries, taking photographs and filming parked Defence Forces vehicles. The Russian side could have used this material to plan potential attacks and special information operations.
Explosive devices seized and confiscated
Counter-intelligence detained the suspect whilst, according to the security service, she was carrying a homemade explosive device concealed in her bag and was awaiting instructions from her handler on where to plant it.
Investigators state that mobile phones and electric detonators were used to remotely detonate the bombs. The explosives were also packed with metal nuts to increase their destructive power. During the search, mobile phones, two ready-made explosive devices and their components were seized.
Suspicion of planning a terrorist attack and a preventive measure
SBU investigators informed the woman that she was under suspicion of Article 14(1) and Article 258(2) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine — preparation to commit a terrorist act. This classification means that the investigation regards the alleged act as an attempted criminal offence at the preparatory stage.
The suspect is being held in custody without the right to bail. According to the SBU, she faces up to 12 years’ imprisonment with confiscation of property. The regional prosecutor’s office was in charge of the proceedings.
