The Security Service and the National Police Prevent New Attempts of Illegal Arms and Ammunition Sales in Various Regions of Ukraine
As a result of complex operations, 15 individuals were detained for attempting to sell "trophy" weapons, which were taken from frontline areas or former combat zones, to criminal elements.
In Poltava Region:
-
A local individual was uncovered who had organized an underground workshop in his backyard for restoring the combat capabilities of firearms, including sniper rifles, for future sale.
-
Additionally, a repeat offender was detained for attempting to sell a batch of military grenades.
To avoid detection by law enforcement, the offender involved a 17-year-old acquaintance who, on his behalf, offered the items to potential clients.
According to case materials, the individual had previously been criminally charged for trading weapons and drugs.
In Transcarpathia:
-
Four arms dealers were arrested, each operating separately. Three of them had previously served prison sentences for theft and drug trafficking.
-
This time, the criminals tried to sell over 1.5 kg of TNT with electric detonators, as well as military grenades and Russian AK-12 assault rifles with ammunition in various parts of the region.
In Kherson Region:
- A resident of Kirovohrad Region was detained after traveling to the southern region to first purchase and then sell anti-tank mines from de-occupied areas.
In Bukovina:
- A demobilized soldier was arrested for bringing "trophy" samples from frontline areas in eastern Ukraine. Six other individuals were also uncovered, attempting to organize an illegal arms and explosives trafficking network in the western region.
Currently, the suspects have been notified of charges under Part 1 of Article 263 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal handling of weapons, ammunition, or explosives).
The criminals are being held in custody, with a sentence of up to 7 years in prison pending.
After expert examinations, all seized munitions will be directed to the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
