The SSU is counteracting to smuggling of toxic chemicals, which is a threat to national and international security. In a special operation, the Service shut down a transnational channel of smuggling Russian mercury to the EU.

The offenders attempted to smuggle almost 10 kg of this hazardous substance to the EU.

The SSU is verifying if the mercury was intended for use in a terrorist attack.

The courier, resident of a European country, was exposed at a border checkpoint in Zakarpattia region.

A large amount of metallic mercury was seized from the suspect. The containers have markings indicating that the mercury was produced in Russia. The courier was transporting the containers among his personal belongings.

Abroad, the offender planned to sell the substance to a customer for USD 600,000.

The investigators are preparing a suspicion notice to serve to the foreigner. The court is to decide on the measure of restraint.

The SSU opened criminal proceeding under Article 201.2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Investigation is underway to establish all the circumstances of illegal activity and bring the culprits to justice.

The SSU carried out the operation jointly with the State Customs Service and the State Border Guard Service under the supervision of Ivano-Frankivsk Regional 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.