The Security Service of Ukraine and the National Police have prevented new attempts at illegal weapon and ammunition trafficking in various regions of Ukraine.
As a result of comprehensive actions, 10 individuals were arrested who were attempting to sell "trophy" weapons to criminal groups.
Among the seized items were Russian grenade launchers, sniper rifles, Kalashnikov assault rifles with silencers, and ammunition of various calibers.
In Kyiv region:
A soldier and four accomplices were uncovered for transporting combat "trophies" from the front. The suspects were caught "red-handed" while attempting to sell a reactive assault grenade RShG-2 and a batch of ammunition for heavy machine guns.
In Zhytomyr region:
Two brothers were arrested for trying to find clients for the hidden sale of anti-tank grenade launchers, ammunition, and hand grenades. One of the suspects, a mobilized individual, had been in the frontline areas, where he smuggled weapons to his relative via mail.
In Poltava region:
Three criminals were arrested for preparing to sell an arsenal of hand grenades and assault rifles. Two of them had previously been convicted for illegal weapons sales and theft. After being released, they recruited a third accomplice and organized a new illegal weapons trafficking channel, smuggling arms from the conflict zone.
The arrested individuals have been informed of their suspicion under Articles 263 part 1 and 28 part 2, 263 part 1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal handling of weapons, military supplies, or explosives, committed by a group of people in advance).
The criminals are under arrest and face up to 7 years in prison.
After procedural actions, all seized weapons will be transferred to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
