The SSU provides an integrated response to illicit trafficking in firearms and ammunition.

In the Zaporizhzhia region, the SSU dismantled a criminal group engaged in illegal trafficking in weapons. The group included a former police officer.

Its members repaired outdated firearms for further sale. To disguise this activity, the clandestine workshop worked under a sign ‘repair of household appliances’ in the basement of a residential building.

The dealers offered the finished products on their own YouTube channel, posting videos on tactical and technical characteristics of repaired weapons.

They also looked for clients at specialized Internet platforms and delivered products by mail.

The items seized included restored samples of machine guns, ammunition and gunpowder.

The investigation identified that the illegal business was organized by several local residents who had expertise in firearms.

The operation resulted in the seizures of:

• a Dehtyariov submachine gun;
• 10 Mosin rifles;
• components of TT, Walter, ČZ-A7 pistols;
• assorted ammunition;
• cold steel.

One organizer of the group was notified of suspicion of illegal handling of weapons, ammunition or explosives. The court will decide on the preventive measure.

Pre-trial investigation is underway to bring to justice other individuals involved.

The SSU Office in Zaporizhzhia region carried out the operation jointly with the National Police investigators under the supervision of Zaporizhzhia Region Prosecutor’s Office.