Counterintelligence units of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) and the National Police thwarted new attempts by Russian forces to carry out a series of terrorist attacks in Kharkiv. As a result of preemptive actions, a Russian agent who was preparing explosions in the city center was arrested.
Investigations revealed that the perpetrator was to manufacture improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and plant them near administrative buildings in the frontline city.
Subsequently, Russian intelligence operatives planned to remotely detonate the bombs during peak hours using mobile phone calls, which had been rigged to trigger the explosives.
SSU officers uncovered the Russian forces’ intentions in advance and caught the agent “red-handed” in a rented apartment while he was preparing the IEDs.
According to the case materials, the task was carried out by an 18-year-old drug addict, who had been recruited by the Russian forces via a Telegram channel promising “easy money for a dose.”
Following instructions from his Russian handler, the agent purchased components for the improvised bombs and began assembling them from available materials.
During searches of the suspect’s temporary residence, authorities seized 2.5 liters of chemical liquid, electrical components for detonation, and a smartphone containing evidence of collaboration with the Russian forces.
SSU investigators have charged the suspect under Part 1 of Article 14, Part 5 of Article 27, and Part 2 of Article 258 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (aiding in preparing a terrorist act, committed by prior conspiracy of a group of persons).
The perpetrator is in custody and faces up to 12 years in prison with confiscation of property.
