The Security Service of Ukraine has neutralized a powerful criminal group in Odesa region, which cooperated with the enemy and wanted to join the occupying ‘power’, if ruscists capture the city.

Leaders and members of criminal groups, including individuals known as ‘Emil Varshavskyi’ and ‘Paizulayev’, were detained in a large-scale special operation of the SSU and the National Police.

The collaborators kept in touch with representatives of Russia, ‘reported’ to them on the situation in the region, terrorized and intimidated local population.

Some members of the group joined the ranks of Territorial Defence forces to gather information about Ukrainian military in Odesa region.

The exposed persons were supposed to ‘hunt’ for law enforcement officers and patriotic activists.

All members of the group, who are citizens of Ukraine, have been detained. One of the leaders (a foreigner) has been expelled from Ukraine, and the other one, who is currently abroad, has been banned from entry to Ukraine.