Law enforcers neutralise Russian military intelligence group

A Russian military intelligence task force preparing for a military takeover was neutralized in Odesa.

This was reported by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the Odesa Regional Prosecutor’s Office, and the Prosecutor General’s Office.

According to the investigation, the suspects created an «operational and combat unit» under the guise of NGOs and commercial enterprises. The unit’s goal was to aid the aggressor state in occupying Odesa and the surrounding region.

The formation was led by a local lawyer and «scholar,» a 49-year-old native of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. After Crimea’s annexation, the suspect relocated to Odesa, where he gathered followers. He selected a «like-minded friend» as his co-leader.

The investigation revealed that, at the start of the full-scale invasion, the defendants had been preparing to seize government buildings in the Odesa region. They also planned to attack the Defense Forces from the rear if Russian forces approached Odesa.

However, after Russian failures on the frontlines, this task force was «put on standby» and only «activated» in the summer of 2024.

The group’s leader began forming operational and combat units under the guise of NGOs at the start of the full-scale war.

For the public, the NGOs appeared to focus on military history, ecology, and legal matters. In reality, they were creating underground groups specializing in sniping, intelligence, communications, operational support, and, most importantly, an assault group.

When selecting candidates, the defendants preferred individuals with special skills, combat experience, or narrow professional expertise.

In the event of Odesa’s capture, group members were promised «positions» within the local occupation administration of the Russian Federation.

In total, the suspects recruited more than 20 individuals into the enemy cell, following a strict military hierarchy. These individuals are now under investigation, and comprehensive measures are being taken to hold them accountable for crimes against Ukraine.

Detention of the Russian agents

During searches, the SBU seized weapons, tactical gear, instructions for subversive activities, and computer equipment containing evidence of the crimes.

The detainees have been charged under the following articles of Ukraine’s Criminal Code:

• Part 2, Art. 28, Art. 109, Part 1: Actions aimed at the violent change or overthrow of the constitutional order or the seizure of state power, committed by a group of individuals in prior conspiracy;
• Part 1, Part 3, Art. 260: Creation of paramilitary or armed groups not authorized by law.

The detainees are currently in custody and face up to 10 years in prison with confiscation of property.