Law enforcement officials have uncovered an agent group plotting terrorist attacks in the Odesa region.

As part of a joint operation by the Security Service of Ukraine and the National Police, an agent group acting on behalf of Russian special services was uncovered. The criminals were planning a series of terrorist attacks in the Odessa region, specifically bombings near regional police departments. The operation culminated in the successful detention of the terrorists during the preparation phase of the explosion. This was reported by the SSU.

According to investigation materials, the group was planning to carry out a series of arson attacks on police service vehicles. After the law enforcement officers arrived at the fire scene, the criminals intended to remotely detonate an improvised explosive device (IED) hidden nearby. To carry out their plans, the terrorists settled in a hostel close to the target location, where they purchased gasoline canisters for the arson and prepared explosives disguised as fire extinguishers.

The discovery of the group was made possible through the investigation of another crime—the murder of a volunteer in the Odessa region on January 20 of this year. At that time, the terrorists set fire to the car of a local activist, and after he attempted to extinguish the flames, they detonated an improvised explosive device hidden in a backpack.

Mobile phones containing evidence of their criminal activities were seized from the detained individuals. It turned out that the terrorist group consisted of three individuals aged between 23 and 45 years, along with their 46-year-old accomplice, who had prior criminal experience and had served time for theft and robbery.

The detained individuals have been charged under Article 258 Part 3 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—organization of a terrorist act resulting in loss of life. They now face life imprisonment with asset confiscation. All suspects are currently in custody.

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It is worth noting that Russia attacked Ukraine with 81 drones: air defense forces shot down 37 UAVs, resulting in hits and casualties. On the night of January 30, 2025, Russia carried out a massive attack with 81 strike UAVs and simulation drones on various regions of Ukraine.