The SSU investigators have completed a pre-trial investigation in relation to the members of a group who recruited mercenaries for hostilities in Syria.

The group was looking for those willing to take part in the armed conflict on the side of the Syrian regime. The payment promised to clients was USD 5,000 to 10,000 monthly.

The investigation was the result of the SSU operation in October this year, when the Service dismantled a group of recruiters.

These recruiters selected candidates from among those with combat experience and weapons skills.

The criminal group was organized by a resident of the capital, who involved two locals of Kyiv region in this activity.

They searched for clients in different parts of Ukraine, using their connections, including in criminal environment.

The indictment under Article 447 of the CCU (recruiting mercenaries) has been sent to court.

Punishment for this crime is imprisonment for up to 10 years.

The SSU Main Directorate in Donetsk and Luhansk regions carried out the operation and investigation under the supervision of Donetsk Regional Prosecutor’s Office.