SBU detains IT specialist recruiting informants for Russia in Cherkasy region – official
The State Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) detained two Russian agents, including an IT specialist from the Cherkasy region who created new recruitment channels for the enemy, the SBU said on Telegram on Tuesday.
The suspect registered mobile numbers of Ukrainian operators to create fake social media accounts, which he handed over to Russian intelligence for recruitment operations. He also opened online accounts under straw names to provide hidden financing for agent networks, using people with drug addictions or the unemployed to obtain bank details, the report said.
SBU counterintelligence documented how the suspect helped Russian intelligence contact an unemployed resident of the Rivne region who adjusted Russian air attacks. SBU officers exposed the informant at an early stage and detained both him and the IT specialist at their homes. Smartphones and computer equipment with evidence of cooperation with the enemy were seized during searches.
Investigators notified the detainees of suspicion under Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (state treason committed under martial law). Both remain in custody without bail and face life imprisonment.
A day earlier, the SBU reported exposing a local student who adjusted attacks on energy infrastructure in the Cherkasy region. The student located a critical infrastructure facility and photographed the area. He was detained in a student dormitory while preparing a report for Russia. He also faces suspicion of state treason and life imprisonment.
