Ukraine`s Security Service (SBU) has announced the detention in Kharkiv of a 19-year-old girl suspected of organizing the bombing of Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel using a scooter.
The incident occurred on June 20 in Kharkiv: a scooter explosion resulted in the death of one Ukrainian soldier and serious injuries to another, as previously reported by Ukrainian media. Initially, it was believed that the servicemen had purchased the scooter online.
However, according to the SBU, the detained girl handed the scooter to the servicemen, presenting it as “volunteer” assistance. The SBU`s official Telegram channel states that a homemade explosive device was placed in the scooter`s storage compartment.
The servicemen were invited to meet near a cafe for the handover of the “volunteer” vehicle, and the explosion occurred after they left the location.
Investigators believe the girl received this task online for financial reward while looking for a job. It is reported that the Kharkiv resident independently acquired the necessary components, assembled the IED (Improvised Explosive Device), and installed it in the scooter`s trunk.
According to SBU information, the girl was apprehended within several hours of the incident. Upon detention, unused parts of the explosive device and a mobile phone, allegedly used for communication with those who commissioned the act, were found in her possession.
The detainee has been charged under the article on terrorist acts. Under this article, she faces a potential sentence of life imprisonment with confiscation of personal property.
