In Kyiv, the SSU Counterintelligence and investigators have uncovered an agent network of an elite unit of the russian federal security service - the counterintelligence operations department. The cell consisted of four individuals and was coordinated in Ukraine by a former people’s deputy from the banned party of regions.

The group was gathering intelligence and conducting sabotage in Ukraine. It had a hierarchical structure with clearly defined roles. In addition to the ex-MP, the network included a saboteur, a supplier of explosive devices, and a woman – an agent specializing in surveillance.

According to the investigation, if the agents performed the enemy tasks successfully, the coordinator planned to expand his network and carry out sabotage throughout Ukraine.

To disrupt the logistics of Ukraine’s Defence Forces, the group planned a series of explosions on Ukrainian railways. In particular, the FSB ordered them to blow up one of the tracks in Kyiv region. The Ukrainian Armed Forces use it to transport equipment and personnel to the frontline. However, the SSU thwarted this act of sabotage.

As a result of a multi-stage special operation, the SSU detained all four members, including the former parliamentarian.

Another assignment of the network was to collect data on Ukrainian figures who were of interest to the russian service. The enemy tried to identify homes, places they visit, daily schedule and social circle of certain persons. All this was carried out in order to assassinate them in the future. One of russia’s targets was Ukrainian journalist Dmytro Gordon.

During the searches of the suspects, the SSU seized communications equipment and electronic devices with evidence of intelligence-gathering and sabotage against Ukraine.

All four detainees are in custody. Depending on the crimes committed, they were notified of suspicion under the Articles of the CCU:

• 111 (high treason);
• 113 (sabotage);
• 258 (terrorist act).

The pre-trial investigation is ongoing. Efforts are underway to bring to justice their handlers from the FSB’s counterintelligence operations department, who have already been identified by the SSU.

The operation was carried out under the procedural supervision of the Prosecutor General’s Office.