A Telegram channel administrator who called for terrorist attacks was exposed in Kyiv

The Security Service of Ukraine, with the assistance of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, detained in Kyiv the founder and administrator of an extremist Telegram channel who had called on subscribers to carry out terrorist attacks. The channel also published video tutorials on how to make explosives and commit other crimes.

The investigation revealed that the suspect created his own Telegram channel, which he used to incite users to attack Ukrainian and foreign law enforcement officers with improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

In addition to calls for mass murder, the suspect distributed video tutorials on how to make explosives to his online audience.

According to the case file, the suspect set up a laboratory in his own apartment, where he demonstrated to his subscribers the process of synthesizing chemicals for assembling improvised bombs.

He also discussed the specifics of using electric detonators, additional elements to “enhance” the destructive effect, and other components of improvised explosive devices.

SBU officers detained the suspect at his residence. During a search of the apartment, law enforcement officers seized explosives and laboratory equipment intended for their synthesis.

In addition, computer equipment containing evidence of the creation and administration of a terrorist Telegram channel was found in the suspect’s possession.

Anti-personnel mines, demolition equipment, and ammunition were also seized during the investigation.

Investigators from the Security Service of Ukraine informed the man that he was suspected of:

• Part 2 of Article 258-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—public calls to commit a terrorist act;
• Part 1 of Article 263 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—illegal handling of weapons, ammunition, or explosive substances.

The suspect is currently in custody. He faces imprisonment.

An investigation is currently underway, during which law enforcement officials are establishing all the circumstances of the crime and identifying the suspect’s possible accomplices.

In addition, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) blocked the Telegram channel that was used to disseminate the relevant content.

These comprehensive measures were carried out under the procedural guidance of the Office of the Prosecutor General.

This was reported by the SBU. 

Previously, law enforcement officers detained a military officer suspected of working for the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). According to the case file, the man was collecting data on defense and critical infrastructure facilities to coordinate massive strikes on Kyiv on September 21–24.

Earlier, a Russian spy network was uncovered in the Kharkiv region, and four members were taken into custody.

Previously, a female officer of the General Staff was detained for accepting a bribe of 14,000 dollars.

In the Chernihiv region, a detained deserter attempted to offer a bribe of 40,000 hryvnias.

The SBU and the National Police uncovered 12 schemes to evade mobilization in eight regions.