The SSU and the National Police have apprehended another 5 young men who were committing arson attacks in three regions of Ukraine on the orders of russian intelligence services.

One of the groups tried to destroy an aircraft of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Kirovohrad region, while others were targeting power substations, including those of Ukrzaliznytsia [Ukrainian railways].

The perpetrators were recruited by the enemy while looking for easy money on Telegram channels.

However, instead of promised payments from russia, they received notices of suspicion from Ukrainian law enforcement.

In Kirovohrad region:

Three young men, aged 17 and 18, were detained after entering a military airfield and attempting to burn an AFU helicopter.

The individuals also intended to destroy one of the region’s key power substations to leave tens of thousands of residents without electricity.

The law enforcement detained them at an early stage, saving the combat helicopter and an important energy facility.

In Poltava region:

A repeat offender has been apprehended for burning a military SUV involved in missions on the eastern front.

According to the investigation, the man had previously been prosecuted for car theft. After recruitment in autumn 2024, he received a task from russia to set fire to vehicles of Ukrainian defenders.

In Cherkasy region:

A 34-year-old local resident was detained for setting fire to a transformer substation that ensured traffic on one of the sections of the railway.

The detained persons have been notified of suspicion (according to the crimes committed) under three Articles of the CCU:

• 113.2 (sabotage, committed under martial law);
• 114-1.1 (obstruction of the AFU’s lawful activities);
• 194.2 (intentional destruction or damage to property).

The suspects are in custody and face life imprisonment with confiscation of property.

The operations were carried out by the SSU Offices in Kirovohrad, Cherkasy and Poltava regions jointly with the National Police under the procedural supervision of regional prosecutors.