The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) neutralized a Russian GRU subversive group preparing to seize power in Odesa, detaining the leader and his deputy. Searches yielded over 70 firearms, ammunition, tactical equipment, and evidence of crimes against suspects involved in the cell.

SBU neutralized a Russian GRU subversive group in Odesa that was preparing to violently seize state institutions.

The SBU detained the leader of the cell and his deputy, seizing over 70 firearms and tactical equipment.

A 'combat group' operating under Russian orders was neutralized while preparing 'a violent seizure of power in Odesa'

The group had originally planned to seize administrative buildings and state institutions in the city at the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion

Once Moscow's invasion faltered, the group was instructed by Russia's FSB to lie low and await further instructions, then reactivated over the summer

The leader was a 49-year-old man who previously lived in Crimea and moved to Odesa after Russia's illegal annexation of the peninsula in 2014

The leader and his right-hand man were detained

The operation discovered 70 firearms with optical sights and ammunition, body armor, helmets, ballistic goggles and other tactical equipment

The leader recruited more than two dozen people

All members are under investigation for crimes against Ukraine, facing up to 10 years in prison if convicted

Two young men were detained in Odesa region for arson against a police vehicle.