FSB Detains Crimean Resident for Alleged Cooperation with Ukrainian Intelligence
The Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia has detained a 51-year-old man in Crimea on suspicion of collaborating with the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). According to reports from the FSB Public Relations Center, the individual was found to have been in contact with an SBU officer through various messaging platforms, including WhatsApp and Telegram. The investigation revealed that he was tasked with retrieving SIM cards from Crimean mobile operators, intended for use by Ukrainian agents operating on the peninsula.
The detainee reportedly received instructions via a secret communication session, where he was provided with the location of a hidden stash of SIM cards. Following the task, he concealed some cards while keeping others until further orders were given. The FSB has opened a criminal case under Article 275.1 of the Russian Criminal Code, which pertains to cooperation with foreign entities. If convicted, the man could face a prison sentence ranging from three to eight years. He is currently in custody, and the FSB has shared video evidence from his apartment, which included extremist literature and symbols associated with Ukrainian nationalism.
In his statements, the detainee revealed that his contact with the SBU officer, identified as Vlad, began in 2022 on the recommendation of a friend. Vlad assured him that they could trust one another and promised to cover any travel expenses if necessary. The detainee's further communications included instructions to retrieve SIM cards, culminating in his arrest on October 22, 2023.
Additional Detentions Highlighting Security Concerns in Crimea
On the same day, another individual, 18-year-old Vladislav Sosedko, was detained for attempting to join the Russian Volunteer Corps and the Freedom of Russia legion, both of which are designated as terrorist organizations in Russia. He was charged with attempted treason and participation in banned terrorist groups after expressing his desire to engage in military operations through messaging apps. The Shcherbinsky Court in Moscow has placed him under house arrest while the investigation continues.
These recent detentions underscore the ongoing tensions in Crimea and the heightened scrutiny by Russian authorities regarding any perceived collaboration with Ukrainian forces. The FSB's actions reflect a broader strategy to crack down on dissent and potential espionage, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
