In Dnipropetrovsk region, the SSU Counterintelligence neutralized a group of FSB agents.

The spies gathered information on location and movement of the Defence Forces in the frontline areas of eastern Ukraine.

Their primary objective was to identify location of hidden bases of the AFU Special Operations Forces, engineering fortifications and training centers of Ukrainian troops.

To this end, the enemy accomplices were trying to expand their network of informants, including among Ukrainian military and law enforcement.

If the occupation groups approached Dnipropetrovsk oblast, the FSB agents were to support them by conducting sabotage and terrorist attacks in the region.

According to the investigation, the intelligence network was headed by a former employee of the local, disbanded police unit, who was recruited by the russian special service long before the full-scale invasion.

He came to the FSB’s attention because of his pro-kremlin views.

The individual had a status of the enemy’s resident spy, tasked with forming his own agent network for reconnaissance and sabotage activities against Ukraine.

For this purpose, the resident recruited two locals, former Ukrainian servicemen, to his group.

After February 24, 2022, the aggressor intensified its agents’ efforts to collect intelligence.

Data were transmitted through pre-arranged secure electronic channels in the form of text messages and images.

In case the region is captured, russian invaders promised their henchmen leading ‘positions’ in the local occupation administrations.

The SSU documented the facts of criminal activity of the enemy network.

During the searches at the suspects’ homes, the SSU found:

• firearms with silencers;
• combat grenades;
• ammunition of various calibers;
• devices for covert communication with the FSB.

SSU investigators opened a criminal proceeding under the Article 111 of the CCU. The detainees have been notified of suspicion of high treason, and court chose custody as a measure of restraint.

The investigation is ongoing to bring to justice all members of the russian agent network.

The SSU Office in Dnipropetrovsk Region carried out the operation under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor’s Office.