As a result of a special operation in Kyiv, the SSU neutralized a powerful criminal group, which functioned as a ‘force cell’ of the banned political party Opposition Platform – For Life.

During the searches of the suspects, the SSU found firearms and ammunition.

The gang were members of the civil association Patriots for Life, which is controlled by former MP Illya Kiva. He himself is on the international wanted list for particularly serious crimes, including high treason and trespass against Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

Prior to the MP’s escape to russia, these ‘patriots’ executed his tasks: carried out provocations during mass events to undermine the socio-political situation in Ukraine.

They were also involved in the so-called ‘physical support’ and protection of public appearances and speeches of representatives of the pro-kremlin party, especially in downtown Kyiv.

For participation in each of these ‘events’, the criminals were paid by their ‘coordinators’ from the Opposition Platform – For Life party.

According to the investigation, the group included at least 12 individuals from criminal circles. Their organizer was in direct contact with Kiva, coordinating their actions before and after russia’s full-scale invasion.

They used anonymous messengers to communicate with each other.

According to the ex-MP’s plan, the gang members were supposed to stay in Kyiv to support the occupiers in case the region is captured.

However, after Kiva’s escape, his accomplices decided to organize drug trafficking for additional ‘profits’.

The gang set up production and sale of wholesale batches of amphetamine in Kyiv region. To do this, they equipped two drug labs at their households.

They searched for clients through personal connections and sold the narcotics through an extensive dealer network.

During the searches of the suspects’ homes, the law enforcement found, among other things, drugs and psychotropic substances prepared for sale, as well as equipment for manufacturing them.

Criminal proceeding was opened under Article 307.2 of the CCU. The organizer and members of the criminal group will be notified of suspicion. Court is to decide on custody as a measure of restraint.

The decision on additional qualification of the suspects’ actions is pending.

The SSU carried out the operation jointly with the National Police under the procedural supervision of Kyiv Region Prosecutor’s Office.