As a result of a multi-stage special operation in Dnipro, the SSU dismantled an intelligence network of the main directorate of the general staff of russian armed forces (better known as the GRU).

During the operation, 7 russian agents were detained. This was announced by the SSU Acting Head Vasyl Maliuk.

‘The SSU has conducted another important special operation to expose and detain enemy agents. This is the outcome of painstaking efforts of our counterintelligence officers. We are thoroughly investigating all those who help guide russian missiles at our cities. Every spotter, anyone adjusting enemy strikes must understand: their actions will not go unpunished. The SSU and the people of Ukraine will not forgive such crimes. Russian agents will have to answer for their actions in full,’ Vasyl Maliuk emphasized.

According to the investigation, the agents provided russians with coordinates of critical infrastructure facilities, including energy generating enterprises.

The aggressor state used this information to prepare and carry out missile attacks on the city. After them, the informants came to the sites of hits to record the consequences and adjust the strikes.

The SSU is verifying if the detained members of the intelligence network were involved in russia’s missile strike on a residential building in Dnipro on January 14, 2023.

The agents were also gathering intelligence on stationing and movement of Ukrainian Defence Forces units in the region, trying to identify positions of air defence systems.

They passed all the collected data to the GRU through the group’s resident spy.

He turned out to be a russian citizen, a former resident of Dnipro, who in 2014 created a local pro-kremlin NGO. The organization advocated the creation of a so-called ‘Ukrainian southeastern republic’ under russia’s control.

Later, the individual fled to the aggressor state, where was recruited by the GRU. On their instructions, he set up an agent network. The group included his fellow countrymen, who joined for ideological reasons.

The network had been put on standby. In October 2022, it was activated and began sabotage and reconnaissance activities against Ukraine.

The agents used anonymous messenger apps to communicate and transmit data on locations in the form of coordinates with photos.

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

• improvised explosive devices;
• computers and mobile phones with evidence of communication with the enemy;
• pro-kremlin literature.

Based on the collected evidence, SSU investigators notified the detainees of suspicion of high treason committed under martial law (Article 111.2 of the CCU).

The investigation is ongoing to establish all the circumstances of the crimes and bring the involved to justice.

The SSU Office in Dnipropetrovsk region carried out the special operation with coordination of the SSU Counterintelligence Department and procedural supervision of Dnipropetrovsk Region Prosecutor’s Office.