Treason for $30: Russian agents exposed in Izmail

Working for the enemy for a penny: SBU uncovers Starlink scheme

The SBU detained two local residents in Odesa region who are suspected of aiding the Russian occupiers by illegally registering Starlink terminals for front men. According to the investigation, the defendants face life imprisonment.

Details of the case

According to the SBU, a 36-year-old man and his 28-year-old partner were exposed in Izmail. Both were unemployed and, according to law enforcement, were looking for «easy money» on Telegram.

The investigation established that the Russian handlers paid them $30 for each illegal registration of the Starlink terminal with the personal data of Ukrainian citizens.

To scale up the scheme, the suspects planned to engage local drug users to visit ASCs and apply for new registrations.

What is the threat to suspects

Both defendants have now been served with a notice of suspicion. They could face life imprisonment with confiscation of property under the articles charged.

The SBU continues investigative actions to identify all those involved in the scheme and possible channels of communication with Russian special services.

Context.

Ukrainian law enforcement officers regularly record attempts to use civilian infrastructure, including satellite communications, in the interests of the Russian occupation forces. Such schemes are considered to be assisting the aggressor state in the war against Ukraine.