Seven individuals have been arrested by Ukrainian law enforcement officers on suspicion of committing arson attacks against military vehicles and rail infrastructure in three oblasts – allegedly under Russian orders.
The SBU reports that Russia’s espionage, sabotage and other activities are increasing in Ukraine amid the ongoing RussoUkrainian War.
SBU reported that the suspects were detained by the National Police and Security Service of Ukraine in Odesa and Dnipropetrovsk oblasts. The individuals are accused by the Russian handlers of setting fires to military vehicles and railroad objects, using flammable mixes, and recording their actions.
Two 16-year old residents of Nikopol, a district in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast were arrested for setting fire to an Ukrainian Armed Forces vehicle as well as a relay cabinet located near a major railway line. Before the arsons, they had to perform “test” tasks, such as drawing “Z Graffiti” on walls, from their Russian curator. SBU shared photos from a phone messenger application, which allegedly showed orders and task completion reports from a Russian handler.
In Cherkasy Oblast authorities arrested two Uman residents aged 16 and 21 who had set ablaze a multivan and a SUV belonging to Ukrainian Armed Forces. These vehicles were being maintained after completing combat missions on the front.
Three young men were arrested in Odesa Oblast for setting eight relay cabinets on rail lines ablaze. SBU claims that the Russians wanted to disrupt the logistics of Defense Forces on the southern front by setting fire to eight relay cabinets.
All detainees were notified of suspicions under various articles of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, including sabotage by a group of people under martial law, obstruction of legal activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine or other military formations and intentional damage caused by arson.
The suspects could face sentences ranging from eight years to life in prison with confiscation of their property.
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