ASTRA: Russia detains 19 suspected of Ukrainian intelligence links

The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has arrested 19 people across 12 regions of Russia, suspected of having ties to Ukrainian intelligence.

According to the agency, the suspects allegedly operated a communications network for Ukrainian intelligence, which was used for sabotage, false threats, and fraud via Russian phone numbers, ASTRA reports.

“More than 40 SIM boxes, over 9,000 SIM cards and SIM chips used in illegal activities were seized. The detainees carried out their activities for financial compensation received from foreign handlers,” the agency’s statement read.

Criminal cases have been opened in connection with the arrests.

By Jeyhun Aghazada