As a result of a large-scale special operation in Kharkiv, the SSU neutralized a criminal group that attacked locals and burglarized people’s homes.

The gang carried out armed ‘raids’ on citizens’ homes and beat money and other valuables out of their victims, intimidated with weapons, used violence and death threats against them.

The group included persons previously convicted of serious and especially serious crimes, including intentional homicide.

To conceal criminal activity, the offenders posed as representatives of Ukrainian law enforcement agencies.

The SSU detained five active members of the group: three - after committing another robbery, two - during an attempt to conceal firearms. Another member was declared wanted.

As a result of searches, the SSU seized a whole arsenal of weapons from the gang, including:

• a portable anti-aircraft missile complex with an anti-tank guided missile;
• 4 RPG-7 anti-tank grenade launchers with shells for them;
• 23 Kalashnikov assault rifles with ammunition;
• 8 Makarov and Stechkin pistols;
• 87 combat grenades (F-1, RGD-5, RGO, RGN and RDG-2B);
• an anti-tank mine detonator;
• silencers for Kalashnikov assault rifles;
• 12,000 rounds for small arms;
• tactical gear with insignia of a law enforcement agency.

The members of the criminal group have been notified of suspicion under Article 187.4 (robbery committed under martial law, combined with trespassing) and Article 263.1 of the CCU (illegal handling of weapons and ammunition). Court has ruled to keep the detained suspects in custody; one of the offenders, a minor, has been placed under house arrest.

The pre-trial investigation is ongoing. Investigators are verifying the group’s involvement in other crimes in the region.

The SSU Office in Kharkiv oblast carried out the operation together with the National Police under the procedural supervision of Kharkiv Region Prosecutor’s Office.