The SSU Counterintelligence has prevented an infiltration of state authorities in Ukraine’s north-east by an enemy agent.

As a result of a multi-stage special operation in Sumy, the SSU detained an FSB agent who had been instructed by the aggressor to get a job in the Defence Directorate of the Regional Military Administration.

In case of successful infiltration of the state institution, the spy was supposed to covertly collect classified information on the oblast’s protection system in the context of russia’s armed aggression.

The individual planned to transmit data to the enemy through secure electronic communication channels using previously agreed symbols.

However, the SSU thwarted such intentions – the russian agent’s actions were documented and he was detained near the building of the local military administration.

According to the investigation, the traitor is a Sumy resident, who was recruited by the FSB before the start of russia’s full-scale invasion.

The individual agreed to cooperate with the aggressor because of his pro-kremlin views and for monetary reward.

After February 24, 2022, on the instructions of the russian special service, he was gathering intelligence on locations and movement of Ukrainian Defence Forces in the region.

To do this, the man drove around the oblast and covertly surveilled Ukrainian troops.

He also collected personal data of local law enforcement officers and their families.

To protect the agent from exposure, occupiers paid for his ‘services’ in cryptocurrency.

During the search of the suspect’s home, the SSU found a russian passport, mobile phones and computer equipment with evidence of intelligence and sabotage activities.

Based on the collected evidence, SSU investigators notified the detainee of suspicion of high treason committed under martial law (Article 111.2 of the CCU).

Court chose custody as a measure of restraint.

The investigation is ongoing.

The SSU Office in Sumy Region carried out the operation under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor’s Office.