The Security Service of Ukraine, in cooperation with the National Police, has thwarted an attempted terrorist attack in Poltava organised by the russian intelligence services. Two minors recruited by russian handlers have been detained.

According to the investigation, the suspects - both 16-year-old local residents - were tasked with targeting a vehicle used by Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel. They manufactured an improvised explosive device intended to be planted beneath the vehicle and remotely detonated when servicemen approached.

The SSU Counterintelligence identified the threat at an early stage and apprehended the suspects in a hotel room where they were assembling the explosive device.

The teenagers were recruited through Telegram channels offering ‘easy money’. They received step-by-step instructions from a russian handler on how to manufacture the device using available materials. They were also instructed to locate the targeted military vehicle and receive approval from the handler.

During the searches, the law enforcement seized the prepared bomb along with mobile phones containing evidence of the crime.

The detainees have been notified of suspicion under the Articles of the CCU:

• 14.1, 258.2 - preparation of a terrorist act committed by a group, by prior conspiracy;
• 194.2 - intentional destruction or damage to property.

The perpetrators face up to 12 years in prison with confiscation of property.

The operation was carried out by the SSU Poltava Office jointly with the National Police and under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor’s Office.