Dnipropetrovsk region: SBU uncovers arms dealers’ group

The Security Service of Ukraine blocked smuggling of military munition in Dnipropetrovsk region.

According to preliminary investigation, three residents of the region, including ex-policeman, set up illegal sales of firearms and ammos. The weapons were hid at their places of residence. The attackers searched for their clients via personal ties, particularly in criminal circles.

SBU operatives have documented the fact of illegal sale of 3 F-1 grenades.

Law enforcement officers detained in Nikopol district one of the group members in accordance with Art.208 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine on his attempt to sell AK-47 assault rifle.

During searches at the suspects' places of residence the SBU officers detected 3 RGD-5 and F-1 grenades with fuses, several guns and pistols and almost 11,000 rounds of different calibers. Furthermore, computer and mobile communication equipment proving their unlawful activity and illegally obtained money were found as well.

The seized munition was sent for examination.

The issue of serving to smugglers notices of suspicion of committing the crime and choosing custody as a type of detention is being decided.

In the framework of the criminal proceedings initiated under Part 1 Art. 263 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, urgent investigative actions are ongoing to establish and bring to justice all the persons involved in the illegal activity. Additionally, law enforcement officers are checking the information about illegal transfer of uncovered weapons and rounds from the JFO area.

The operation was carried out jointly with the Internal Security Directorate of the National Police and Serious Crimes Investigation Unit of the Investigation Department of the Main Directorate of the National Police in the region under the procedural guidance of the Prosecutor's Office of Dnipropetrovsk region.