As a result of a special operation in Donetsk region, the SSU Counterintelligence dismantled an extensive intelligence network of russian special services.

The agents collected intelligence on deployment and movement of Ukrainian Defence Forces in Bakhmut and Toretsk.

They also passed data on location of electricity substations and social facilities, including schools, maternity hospitals and student dormitories, to the enemy.

Occupiers planned to use the obtained intelligence to prepare and carry out targeted missile strikes on Ukrainian towns.

However, the SSU was ahead of the curve - the criminal activity was timely detected and documented, russian agents - detained.

The detainees are three local women, who were recruited by the russian-controlled ‘DNR ministry of state security’ after the start of the full-scale invasion.

They received russian passports, which they planned to use to travel to the aggressor state in case of successful completion of enemy assignments.

To collect intelligence, the agents personally walked around the towns and made marks on electronic maps.

Then, they passed the data to their ‘liaison’ in the occupied Horlivka.

The ‘liaison’ was the one who reported to the ‘supervisor’ of the network - deputy head of the russian-controlled ‘DNR ministry of state security’.

For communication, they used a prearranged anonymous Internet channel.

Through this channel, the agents sent coordinates of Ukrainian targets with photos, video footage and detailed descriptions.

During the searches at the locations where the suspects stayed, the SSU found:

• computer equipment and mobile phones with evidence of communication with the enemy;
• russian passports.

SSU investigators served the three detainees notices of suspicion under the Article 111.2 of the CCU (high treason committed under martial law).

Court chose custody as a measure of restraint for the suspects.

The investigation is ongoing to bring to justice all those involved in the enemy intelligence network.

The SSU Office in Vinnytsia region carried out the operation jointly with the SSU Counterintelligence Department with the procedural supervision of Vinnytsia Region Prosecutor’s Office.