Breaking News: Suspects Arrested in Connection with Tuesday’s Explosion in Ukraine‘s Zhytomyr Region
Authorities in Ukraine’s Zhytomyr region have swiftly responded to Tuesday’s explosion near a Trade and Cultural Center (CTC), arresting two suspects linked to the terrorist act. The Joint Forces Operation (JFO) in the region confirmed the arrest on Wednesday.
The incident, reported around 3:30 PM on Tuesday, triggered an immediate response from the police and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). Join forces from the Zhytomyr Regional Police Department, Berdychiv Police Station, as well as investigators from the Strategic Investigations Department (SID), and SBU operatives, arrived at the scene. Bomb squads, crime scene specialists, and officers from the criminal investigations department were also dispatched to the CTC.
A suspicious bag containing a homemade explosive device packed with metal shrapnel, and a mobile phone, were recovered at the site. Fortunately, the device did not detonate. Additionally, investigators seized a second mobile phone believed to have been used for video streaming and other evidence.
In response, authorities swiftly launched a special police operation to apprehend those behind the act, also notifying neighboring regions for assistance. Hours later, the first suspect, a 41-year-old man with a criminal history involving drug-related offenses and theft, was arrested while attempting to board a bus to Kyiv.
It is now revealed that the man was assisted by a 23-year-old woman from the nearby town of Berdychiv, who had previously faced drug charges. Reports suggest that the woman supplied the explosive device and both individuals acted under the direction of Russian handlers.
The SBU’s Cyber Crimes Division is leading the ongoing investigation, and charges under Article 258 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code (Terrorist Act) have been brought against the suspects. The suspects are expected to face judicial proceedings shortly.
Under Ukrainian law, the crime carries penalties ranging from seven to twelve years’ imprisonment.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.
