SBU neutralizes Russian artillery spotters in Bakhmut

That’s according to the Security Service’s press office, Ukrinform reports.

"The Security Service carried out a counter-sabotage operation, during which four enemy agents were neutralized and detained. They had been recruited by the Russian special services for reconnaissance and subversive activities against Ukraine. In particular, the culprits would send the enemy the coordinates of the city infrastructure facilities and collect intelligence about the deployment and movement of the Army units across the region," the report says.

As noted, the enemy assets also tried to obtain personal data of Ukrainian defenders, including SBU operatives.

The invasion forces intended to use this information to carry out a series of strikes on Bakhmut and acts of sabotage against the Defense Forces close to the eastern front.

The cell communicated with its handlers via special Telegram channels

Communication devices with evidence of criminal activity have been seized from the perpetrators, along with an AK-74 assault rifle. Charges have been formally pressed against the suspects.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, as of July 18, the Security Service of Ukraine has been investigating more than 500 cases where suspects are believed to have been collaborating with the enemy forces.