Ukrainian security agency arrests nine suspected saboteurs

“We conducted a multi-stage special operation to defang the network overseen by Russian special services. It worked in eastern and southern regions of Ukraine,” SBU department chief Oleksandr Tkachuk was quoted as saying by Interfax Ukraine.

“According to our information, Russia's Military Main Intelligence Directorate [Foreign military intelligence agency, known as GRU] was involved,” he added.

The Polish PAP news agency said that the nine who were arrested were current or former Ukrainian military personnel.

It added that the group were instructed to gather information on important infrastructure and military facilities.

“They were also instructed to organise terror attacks on Ukrainian citizens in southern districts,” PAP quoted Tkachuk as saying.

(rg/pk)