The Odessa Prosecutor's Office has initiated court proceedings against three individuals who were part of an organized crime group involved in sabotage, specifically arson at railway facilities during martial law (Part 3 Article 28 Part 2 Article 113 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

According to the investigation, the accused received a task via messenger from a representative of the Russian special services to carry out sabotage for financial rewards at Odessa railway facilities.

In August 2024, they used a pre-prepared incendiary mixture to set fire to 8 relay cabinets at railway stations in the Odessa region.

The perpetrators operated according to a well-known scheme of Russian special services: first, they conducted reconnaissance of potential targets, obtained approval, and then executed the arson while documenting it on video. They received money for each completed 'assignment,' which was distributed among the group members.

Currently, all accused individuals are in custody.

The pre-trial investigation and operational support were carried out by the SBU in the Odessa region.

Note: According to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of a crime until proven guilty in a lawful manner by a court verdict.