Arrest of Suspect in Administrative Building Arsons

Under the guidance of the Odesa regional prosecutor's office, a local resident has been charged with intentional destruction of property by arson (part 2 of article 194 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

According to the investigation, the suspect received an offer via a messaging app to commit arson on administrative buildings for monetary reward. He was also promised safe passage abroad in case of "danger".

To achieve his goals, the man meticulously planned the targets of his criminal actions and negotiated the amount of the agreed reward. He took precautions, wearing dark clothing and gloves, which significantly complicated his identification.

After preparing the necessary materials, including polymer bottles filled with gasoline, he arrived at the buildings chosen as targets for his criminal activities. He poured fuel on the windows and walls, ignited them, and recorded his actions on video.

Between October and December 2024, he set fire to several post offices and administrative buildings of local government as part of his assignments, documenting everything on video for reporting to his client. He received payment to his electronic wallet.

Law enforcement apprehended the suspect while he was executing another assignment – the arson of the office of the Pension Fund in the Ovidiopol district.

Following the prosecution's request, the suspect has been placed in custody.

The pre-trial investigation is being conducted by detectives of the Vinnitsa Police Department No. 1 of the Odesa Regional Police, with operational support from the Regional Police and the Security Service of Ukraine in the Odesa region.

Note: According to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of committing a crime and cannot be subject to criminal punishment until their guilt is proven in a lawful manner and established by a court verdict.