The SBI exposed a serviceman for illegal arms trafficking worth 1.7 million hryvnias

The SBI exposed a serviceman for illegal arms trafficking worth 1.7 million hryvnias

A trial of a serviceman will take place in Donetsk region.

This was reported by the press service of the State Bureau of Investigation.

SBI employees have completed the pre-trial investigation regarding a serviceman who attempted to illegally sell weapons that were on the balance sheet of his military unit in the Donetsk region. The indictment has been submitted to the court.

«In April 2025, the suspect found a «client» through social media and exchanged 26 stolen grenades and 9 grenade launchers from his unit for a drone. Later, this drone was resold by the serviceman to another civilian for 40,000 UAH. Following the successful transaction, the serviceman attempted to sell another 9 grenades and 3 grenade launchers for 65,000 UAH, but was detained by SBI operatives,» the statement reads.

SBI employees found and seized all the weapons, including those already sold, as well as other equipment.

The SBI clarified that a total of 35 grenades and 12 grenade launchers belonging to the suspect’s unit were documented as sold. The estimated value of the seized weapons exceeds 1.7 million UAH. After completing all necessary legal procedures, the weapons will be returned to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The serviceman is charged with misappropriation of ammunition and explosive substances using his official position under martial law (Part 4 of Article 410 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine); carrying, acquiring, and selling ammunition, explosive substances, and devices without the legally required permission (Part 1 of Article 263 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

The penalties provide for up to 15 years of imprisonment.