The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) is holding searches at PJSC Motor Sich as part of a criminal investigation into the preparation of sabotage, the SBU press center told Interfax-Ukraine.

"Currently, investigative actions (searches) are being conducted as part of an inquiry into criminal proceedings under Part 1 of Article 14 and Article 131 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (preparations for sabotage)," the SBU press center said on Monday.

The investigation is sanctioned by a court ruling.

The searches began on Monday morning, an Interfax-Ukraine correspondent reported.

The staff of the enterprise said SBU officials from Kyiv simultaneously entered the administrative office, Motor Bank, and the industrial premises, allegedly by jumping over the gates at the main entrance, which led to clashes with the enterprise's security.

People in camouflage are now inside and near the building where the procurement department is located and in the enterprise's securities section. They are not speaking with journalists.

PJSC Motor Sich is one of the world's largest manufacturers of aircraft engines, as well as industrial gas turbines. It delivers products to more than 100 countries. In 2012, Motor Sich helicopter design bureau was created in Zaporizhia.