The SSU has neutralized a group of russian agents who were collecting intelligence on defence of the areas along the Black Sea coast. In a special operation in Mykolaiv region, 3 deep-cover enemy agents were detained.

They were scouting combat positions and collecting data on the movements of Ukrainian Armed Forces as well as on geolocations of strategic critical infrastructure in the region.

In order to disguise their unlawful activity, the spies engaged their close relatives and local residents as informants.

The members of the group transmitted collected information to their russian handler as text messages and photos with coordinates by previously agreed anonymous Telegram channels.

The SSU established that the agent network had been formed by russian special services to carry out intelligence and subversive activities. In addition to gathering intelligence, they also called people to support the occupiers and justified their crimes, trying to destabilize the situation in the region and expand their group.

During the searches, the law enforcement found computer equipment and communication devices with evidence of unlawful activity.

The detainees have been notified of suspicion under the Articles of the CCU:

• 114-2.3 (distribution of information about the movement or location of the Armed Forces of Ukraine),
• 111.2 (treason),
• 436-2.3 (justification, recognizing as legitimate, denying russia’s armed aggression against Ukraine).

The pre-trial investigation is underway to bring to justice other members of the group.

The SSU Office in Mykolaiv region carried out the operation under the procedural supervision of Mykolaiv Regional Prosecutor’s Office.