SBU detains teenagers in Poltava over plot to bomb Ukrainian military vehicle
Counterintelligence officers of the Security Service of Ukraine, together with the National Police of Ukraine, have prevented a terrorist attack in Poltava that was being prepared by two minors on orders from Russian intelligence services.
This was reported by the SBU.
The suspects were planning to blow up a vehicle carrying Ukrainian servicemen using an improvised explosive device assembled according to instructions provided by their handlers.
The investigation found that the individuals intended to plant the bomb under a military vehicle and wait for Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel to approach. Russian operatives planned to detonate the device remotely when the servicemen were in close proximity to the mined vehicle.
SBU officers acted pre-emptively and detained the suspects in a hotel room while they were assembling the explosive device.
According to case materials, the perpetrators were two 16-year-old local residents who had been seeking quick earnings through Telegram channels.
A Russian handler provided the teenagers with detailed instructions on how to construct the bomb using readily available materials that could be purchased in ordinary shops.
The suspects were also tasked with identifying the regular parking location of a Ukrainian military vehicle and coordinating the exact site of the planned attack with a Russian contact.
During authorised searches, law enforcement officers seized a fully assembled explosive device ready for use, as well as mobile phones.
Messages found on the suspects’ smartphones revealed communication with Russian intelligence services, providing clear evidence of their unlawful activities in favour of the aggressor state.
Both individuals have been formally notified of suspicion under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, relating to the preparation of a terrorist act and intentional damage to property.
Despite their age, they face severe punishment — up to 12 years’ imprisonment with full confiscation of property.
Earlier, the SBU detained an employee of NABU at the entrance to Sumy.
The SBU also detained a Russian agent while she was preparing a terrorist attack in central Dnipro.
