The Security Service has prevented new attempts by Russian forces to create their own intelligence network in the central regions of Ukraine. As a result of comprehensive measures in Vinnytsia, a repeat offender was detained, who was working for the Russian PMC Wagner.
At the direction of the hostile group, he collected information about the locations of Ukrainian Armed Forces bases in Vinnytsia and Cherkasy regions. Also, the perpetrator "reported" to the Russian forces about the consequences of missile and drone strikes in the central part of Ukraine. To gather intelligence, he attempted to create his own network of informants, who were supposed to be "distributed" across various districts of the two regions. In order to find like-minded individuals and recruit them, the individual used personal connections within criminal circles. He promised potential "candidates" monetary rewards, which he planned to receive from the Russian private military company.
The Security Service timely exposed the agent of the Wagner Group and systematically documented his intelligence and subversive activities. According to the investigation, the suspect is a former serviceman who was convicted of desertion and participation in hostilities against the Ukrainian Armed Forces in 2014 in eastern Ukraine. After being released, he settled in Uman, but later moved to Vinnytsia region.
In late 2023, he was approached by an acquaintance – a representative of the Wagner Group – and recruited to work for the benefit of Russia. During a search of the detainee's residence, a mobile phone was found, through which he communicated with the Russian forces via messenger.
Currently, the investigators of the Security Service have informed him of suspicion under Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (state treason committed under conditions of martial law).
The perpetrator is in custody. He faces life imprisonment.
