The channel for deliveries from Russia on Ukraine of components for combat helicopters

An international group, which included citizens of Russia, Ukraine and the Middle East, tried to ship components for Mi-8 and Mi-17 helicopters to Kiev for more than 400 million rubles. This was reported in the Center for Public Relations of the FSB of Russia.

"The FSB has identified and suppressed the illegal activities of an international group of persons involved in the preparation of smuggling abroad, including on Ukraine, aviation and technical property. It was established that it consisted of six participants from among the citizens of Russia, Ukraine and [countries] of the Middle East. The coordination of their activities was carried out by a citizen of a foreign state located abroad," the report says.

It is noted that the cost of the components being prepared for shipment is more than 400 million rubles, with their help it is possible to restore the airworthiness of at least four helicopters.

"In order to realize the criminal intent, the members of the group, commissioned by representatives of foreign organizations through a number of controlled commercial structures, purchased new components for Russian-made Mi-8 and Mi-17 helicopters from manufacturers and operating companies, stored and illegally transported across the state border," the FSB said.

The investigative Department of the Federal Security Service for the Orenburg region has opened a criminal case under Part 3 of Article 30, Part 1.1 of Article 226.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (attempted smuggling of military equipment, as well as equipment that can be used to create weapons or military equipment). Operational search activities and investigative actions are continuing.