The SSU Counterintelligence detained an enemy agent who carried out systematic reconnaissance of the border area and fortifications in Sumy region, preparing acts of sabotage.

A resident of Shostka district also collected intelligence on the deployment, movement and weapons of the Defence Forces of Ukraine.

The enemy used the received information to plan sabotage and targeted shelling of the border area.

The SSU Counterintelligence established that the agent, a Ukrainian entrepreneur, was recruited by russian special services during his business trips to russia. He agreed to the offer of covert cooperation because of his pro-russian views.

After the start of russia’s full-scale invasion, the spy began to systematically inform the enemy, acting on his handler’s instructions.

When gathering intelligence, he photographed military facilities and sites of deployment of Ukrainian Defence Forces. He passed the files with georeferenced data to his supervisor through secure electronic channels.

According to the investigation, russian special services planned to involve him in sabotage in the future.

During the search of the agent’s home, the SSU uncovered and seized mobile phones with evidence of the crime and over 500 g of explosives.

The detainee was notified of suspicion of treason committed under martial law (Article 111.2 of the CCU). The court is to decide on the type of detention.

The investigation is ongoing.

The SSU Office in Sumy Region carried out the operation under the procedural supervision of Sumy Region Prosecutor’s Office.