SBU prevented a terrorist attack in Zhytomyr: Russians tried to recruit a 16-year-old girl to plant explosives
Counterintelligence of the SBU, together with the National Police, discovered a homemade explosive device that Russian agents planned to use for a terrorist attack in a densely populated area of Zhytomyr.
The operation involved a 16-year-old schoolgirl, whom they tried to involve in the implementation of the occupiers’ criminal plan. The SBU press service reported this.
It is noted that as a result of joint actions of the Security Service of Ukraine and the National Police, another attempted terrorist act by Russian special services was prevented. Law enforcement officers uncovered an intention to plant an explosive device in a residential area of Zhytomyr.
It was found that Russian handlers contacted a 16-year-old resident of Berdychiv who was seeking work through suspicious Telegram channels.
On these platforms, she received an offer to complete a “task” for a monetary reward.
Based on instructions from Russian agents, the girl was to go to Zhytomyr, where she was to settle in a rented apartment for several days. While staying in the apartment, the minor was to be taught how to assemble an explosive device according to detailed diagrams sent from Russia. The design had to include metal elements to enhance the damage and connect a mobile phone for remote detonation.
The next stage of the task was to arrange the explosive under a fire extinguisher, hiding it in a local park, as well as install a phone to record the consequences of the terrorist attack.
However, Ukrainian special services took timely measures and prevented the enemy’s plan from being implemented. SBU and National Police operatives discovered the homemade explosive, safely neutralized it, and documented all the facts of the preparation of the terrorist attack, preventing possible victims.
Currently, a pre-trial investigation is underway within the framework of criminal proceedings opened by the SBU on the grounds of preparation for a terrorist attack (Part 1 of Article 14, Part 2 of Article 258 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).
Law enforcement agencies are working to identify all persons involved in organizing the crime.
Comprehensive investigative and operational actions are being carried out by SBU officers in the Zhytomyr region in cooperation with the National Police under the control of the regional prosecutor’s office.
