Georgian State Security Service: two Ukrainian nationals arrested for smuggling powerful explosive into Georgia

Georgia’s State Security Service on Thursday detained two Ukrainian citizens for attempting to smuggle 2.4 kilograms of a powerful explosive substance, hexogen, into the country.

According to the investigation, the explosives were handed to a truck driver by an unidentified person in Ukraine along with instructions that after crossing the Georgian border, another associate would retrieve the material.

Another Ukrainian citizen had subsequently collected the explosives from the driver’s vehicle.

“On September 10, a Mercedes-Benz truck with Ukrainian license plates crossed into Georgia from Turkey, via Romania and Bulgaria, through the Sarpi border checkpoint. Upon inspection, authorities discovered 2.4 kilograms of hexogen, carefully concealed in secret compartments. For public clarity, hexogen is a high-powered explosive, stronger than TNT”, the Service said.

Searches conducted resulted in the seizure of eight mobile phones, a computer, various electronic storage devices, a large amount of cash, SIM cards from various countries, and the narcotic substance cocaine.

The investigation is ongoing under Article 236 of the Georgian Criminal Code, which criminalises the illegal acquisition, possession, and transportation of explosive materials.

The suspects will also face charges under Article 260 related to the narcotics discovered during searches.

Authorities are working to determine the intended purpose of the explosives - whether they were meant for a terrorist act in Georgia, for transit, or another use.

The legal classification of the detained individuals' actions will be clarified, and the public will be informed further if necessary.

The State Security Service expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Prosecutor’s Office for their significant contribution to this successful operation.