SSU CI cracked down on smuggling of metallic mercury from Transcarpathia
to the EU. This highly toxic substance can be used for large-scale chemical terrorist attacks.

Perpetrators were exposed while trying to transport three kilograms of mercury. The courier was a citizen of a European country. Allegedly, he agreed to do the job for EUR 5,000. The buyer was expecting the courier across the border to purchase the hazardous product for EUR 200,000.

The offender was detained at Mali Selmentsi checkpoint. During the search of his personal belongings, law enforcement seized concealed containers with mercury.

Within criminal proceedings initiated by the SSU, the detainee was served a notice of suspicion.

The investigation is underway to establish the origin of toxic substance as well as sellers and buyers.

The operation was carried out jointly with the Customs and Border services under the supervision of Transcarpathian region Prosecutor’s Office.

Mercury is a highly toxic chemical of the highest hazard class.

Mercury vapour and almost all of its soluble compounds are highly toxic and can cause severe poisoning or death.

The hazardous substance can be used to commit terrorist/extremist attacks.