The SSU prevented illegal sale of weapons and ammunition from Dnipropetrovsk and Kherson regions.

As a result of the operations, the SSU detained organizers of two munitions trafficking channels, who sold weapons obtained in the de-occupied territory - in the areas where military actions had been previously conducted.

Among the items seized from the suspects are russian-made explosives, combat grenades, an anti-tank grenade launcher and Kalashnikov rifles.

As the investigation identified, the dealers wanted to sell the russian AK-12 automatic rifle for almost UAH 60,000 (USD 1,500), and the grenade launcher – for UAH 14,500 (USD 380).

They were looking for clients through their connections in criminal circles.

In Dnipropetrovsk region:

The SSU detained an individual who had prepared an arsenal of ‘trophy’ munitions for sale.

The weapons and ammunition were stored in his home, where the following were found:

• a Kalashnikov handgun;
• 2 assault rifles: AK-12 and AK-74;
• 8 grenade launcher projectiles;
• 9 combat grenades;
• explosives with a detonator;
• over 1,000 rounds of ammunition of various calibers.

In addition, over 40 artillery shells were seized from the suspect’s cache.

In Kherson region:

The SSU apprehended another arms dealer, who was trying to illegally sell a Kalashnikov rifle with ammunition and a russian ‘RShG-2’ grenade launcher.

During the searches in the man’s home, the following items were also found and seized:

• RGD-5 grenades;
• grenade launcher projectiles;
• 5.45 calibre ammunition.

Based on the evidence collected, both detained individuals have been notified of suspicion under Article 263.1 of the CCU (illegal handling of weapons, ammunition or explosives). The court chose custody as a measure of restraint for them.

The suspects are facing up to 7 years in prison.

All seized munitions are to be handed over to the Security and Defence Forces of Ukraine.

The operations were carried out by the SSU Offices in Ternopil, Ivano-Frankivsk, Dnipropetrovsk and Kherson regions jointly with the National Police under the procedural supervision of the Prosecutor’s Office.