Pro-Russian sabotage group detained in Odesa region

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) in Odesa region has detained members of a sabotage group that planned a series of terrorist attacks and assassinations.

"The group was formed by a former employee of the Russian special services, who is now residing in the temporarily occupied territory of Crimea. The main task of the group was physical elimination of the Odesa Euromaidan leader," the SBU has reported.

According to the report, the General Staff of the Russian Federation ordered members of the group to carry out bombings in law enforcement agencies, military facilities, volunteer and pro-Ukrainian public organizations.

The SBU has found the Russian-agreed detailed plan of the murder of an activist on route to his home in the suburbs of Odesa. An attack was scheduled for September, 2015. Members of one of the local Odesa units of the Communist Party of Ukraine had to commit this crime.

The law enforcement officers detained all six perpetrators ahead of their plotted criminal attempt. The SBU seized materials that confirmed the action plan for the physical elimination of an activist under the direct supervision of a foreigner. The detainees are now testifying on the sclae of their personal involvement and the distribution of roles in the implementation of the criminal plan.

Criminal proceedings were opened under Part 1 of Article 14 (preparation of a crime) and Part 1 Article 258 (act of terrorism) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.