The SBU detained two underage Russian agents: one was operating in Odesa

The Security Service of Ukraine, in cooperation with the National Police, detained a 16-year-old local resident in Odesa who is suspected of carrying out a sabotage mission for Russian intelligence services. According to the investigation, the minor set fire to equipment at one of the region’s key energy facilities.

As reported by the SBU, the teenager was recruited through Telegram channels that offered “easy” money.

Following instructions from a handler in Russia, he set fire to a mobile crane, two aerial work platforms, and a crane-manipulator that were being used for emergency restoration and repair work on high-voltage power lines supplying electricity to southern Ukraine.

According to law enforcement officials, to carry out the mission, the suspect purchased a flammable mixture, then traveled by public transportation to the power substation and set the equipment on fire.

SBU officers apprehended him “red-handed” less than a day after the crime. During a search, law enforcement officials seized the arson materials and a cell phone through which he coordinated his actions with representatives of Russian special services.

At the same time, law enforcement officers detained another 16-year-old agent in the Vinnytsia region. According to the investigation, he set fire to an off-road vehicle belonging to a member of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on orders from the FSB, having previously tracked down its parking location.

Both minors were notified of their status as suspects under Part 2 of Article 194 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—intentional destruction or damage to property by arson. They face up to 10 years in prison with confiscation of property. Law enforcement officials are also considering additional legal classifications for their actions.

The SBU has once again urged Ukrainians to report attempts at recruitment by Russian special services or any known activities of enemy agents.

Recently, a Russian intelligence officer was exposed in Odesa who was recruiting teenagers to carry out sabotage and terrorist attacks. The minors were persuaded to set fire to military facilities and infrastructure with the promise of quick money.

Back in May 2024,SBU officersexposed four agents who attempted to set fire to two military vehicles in the regional capital. During the investigation, it was established that all of them were acting on the instructions of a Russian handler.

The group consisted of Odessa residents aged 13 to 18. According to the SBU, the teenagers were recruited through Telegram channels, where they were looking for opportunities to make quick money. 

Андрій Колісніченко