Ukraine’s Security Service counterintelligence thwarted another terrorist attempt in Lviv, detaining two local teenagers aged 14 and 15 who were recruited by Russian intelligence to carry out an attack on a soldier’s home.
According to investigators, the minors placed a homemade explosive device inside a flower pot near the entrance of a townhouse where a Ukrainian Defense Forces serviceman lived.
To ensure remote detonation at the right moment, the Russian handlers instructed the teens to install a surveillance camera with remote access at the site. This allowed a Russian coordinator to monitor the area and trigger the explosion when the target approached.
Thanks to prompt action by the SBU, the plan was foiled, and the perpetrators were caught red-handed while planting the explosive.
Key details of the operation:
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The teens were recruited via Telegram channels promoting “easy money” schemes.
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After receiving instructions, they retrieved the explosive from a hidden stash and transported it to the designated location.
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During the arrest, officers seized the explosive device and smartphones containing evidence of communication with a Russian handler.
Both individuals have been officially charged under Part 2 of Article 15 and Part 2 of Article 258 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine — attempted terrorist act committed by a group by prior conspiracy.
They face up to 12 years in prison with property confiscation.
The operation was conducted by counterintelligence officers and investigators of the SBU in Lviv region under the procedural supervision of the regional prosecutor’s office.
Earlier in September, the SBU had detained two other minors in Lviv who were planning to blow up a Ukrainian soldier’s car.