Russia: Teenagers arrested over arson attacks, sabotage plots in 3 regions

At least 4 teenagers have been detained in three Russian regions on suspicion of terrorism-related offences and attempted acts of sabotage carried out for small cash payments, and under instructions from online handlers, the Investigative Committee said.

According to investigators, the arrests took place in the Republic of Bashkortostan, Kirov Oblast and Krasnoyarsk Krai, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

The Investigative Committee, speaking via its official representative Svetlana Petrenko, said the cases were being handled jointly with the Federal Security Service (FSB).

In Bashkortostan, two 15-year-old boys allegedly set fire to railway equipment near the Yanaul station in January 2026, damaging infrastructure linked to train safety systems, in exchange for around 15,000 roubles ($170).

Investigators said the teenagers had acted on instructions from unidentified online recruiters via Telegram.

The pair have partially admitted involvement, saying they had not fully understood the nature of their actions and were motivated by financial gain, according to investigators. They have been charged under the terrorism provisions of the Russian Criminal Code.

In Kirov Oblast, a 17-year-old suspect was arrested after allegedly attempting to set fire to a transformer substation using an accelerant on January 30. Authorities said the act was also carried out for payment under instructions from an unidentified individual. He faces charges relating to attempted terrorist activity.

Officials said efforts were continuing to identify those believed to have coordinated the attacks online. The cases remain under investigation.

By Aghakazim Guliyev