SBU, with assistance from FBI, detained in Kyiv founder and administrator of Telegram channel, who called on subscribers to carry out terrorist attacks and provided instructions on making explosives
The Security Service of Ukraine, with assistance from FBI, has detained in Kyiv the founder and administrator of an extremist Telegram channel. The suspect used the platform to call for terrorist attacks against law enforcement officers in Ukraine and partner countries and posted video instructions on how to manufacture explosives and commit other crimes.
The investigation established that the detainee created his own Telegram channel, where he encouraged users to attack Ukrainian and foreign law enforcement officers using improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
In addition to calls for mass killings, the suspect provided his online audience with video instructions on how to manufacture explosives.
The suspect was documented operating a laboratory in his apartment, where he demonstrated the synthesis of chemical substances used to assemble improvised explosive devices.
He also provided subscribers with information on the use of electric detonators, additional components designed to increase the destructive effect of explosive devices and other IED components.
SBU officers detained the suspect at his place of residence. During searches of his apartment investigators seized explosive substances and laboratory equipment used for their synthesis.
The detainee was also found in possession of computer equipment containing evidence of the creation and administration of the terrorist Telegram channel as well as anti-personnel mines, detonation equipment and ammunition.
SBU investigators notified him of suspicion under Part 2 of Article 258-2 (public calls to commit a terrorist act) and Part 1 of Article 263 (illegal handling of weapons, ammunition or explosives) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.
The suspect is currently in custody. He faces imprisonment. The investigation is ongoing to establish all the circumstances of the crime and identify any possible accomplices.
The SBU has also blocked the Telegram channel in question.
The operation was conducted under the procedural supervision of the Office of the Prosecutor General.
