Illegal Weapons Trafficking Operation Busted in Mykolaiv, Ukraine – KyivPost

The SSU has dismantled a criminal group engaged in unlawful trade in weapons: two organizers were detained. Below is their statement in full.

They tried to sell an AK-74 machine gun with ammunition for UAH 40,000 (USD 980). The items seized from the dealers also include a sniper rifle with silencers, fragmentation grenades and Kalashnikov assault rifles, including those manufactured in russia.

The investigation established that the gang included several residents of Voznesensk, who looked for clients through personal connections in criminal circles.

During the searches of the detainees’ homes, the law enforcement found:

• six F-1 and RGD combat grenades,
• five AK-74 assault rifles and a sniper rifle with silencers,
• 14 pistols and a revolver,
• smoke grenades and an electric detonator,
• over 4,000 rounds for small arms of various caliber.

The detainees were notified of suspicion of crime under Article 263.1 of the CCU (illegal handling of weapons, ammunition or explosives). The court is to decide on the type of detention.

The investigation is underway to establish sources of weapons and bring to justice all those involved.

The SSU Office in Mykolaiv region carried out the operation together with the National Police under the procedural supervision of Mykolaiv Region Prosecutor’s Office.