Security Service of Ukraine Uncovers Illegal Arms Trade Network

The Security Service of Ukraine has conducted an extensive operation revealing illegal arms trade in four regions: 15 individuals have been arrested.

This was reported by the SSU press service.

As a result of the operation, 15 suspects were apprehended while attempting to organize the sale of military-grade weapons. Among the confiscated items were Russian Kalashnikov rifles with grenade launchers, as well as fragmentation grenades and explosives.

In Odesa, one suspect was caught red-handed attempting to sell homemade explosive devices and military grenades. Approximately 1 kg of TNT and other dangerous items were seized from him.

In the Kyiv region, a 31-year-old local man and four accomplices were arrested for trading “trophy” weapons from areas of former combat.

After transporting the arsenals to the capital region, the criminals restored the combat capabilities of the weapons for sale through their connections in criminal circles.

Additionally, two other criminal groups were neutralized in the Kyiv region that attempted to sell a Kalashnikov machine gun and RPG-7V anti-tank grenade launchers.

In Chernihiv, law enforcement apprehended three members of a criminal group who were seeking clients for selling automatic weapons and explosives.

In Lutsk, a local resident was caught trying to sell military grenades to criminals. He intended to cover his tracks by demanding payment through anonymous payment systems. The arrested individuals have been charged under Article 263 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which pertains to illegal handling of firearms, ammunition, or explosives. They face up to 7 years in prison.