The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) conducted a "counter-sabotage" raid in the government quarter of Kiev on Wednesday. The operation, carried out in cooperation with the National Police and military police, aimed to "check the counter-sabotage protection" of the area and ensure the safety of "persons eligible to state-level security."
Law enforcement officers inspected the grounds and buildings in the quarter, including public institutions and residential areas, searching for unspecified "prohibited items." People present were subjected to random checks.
The SBU requested citizens to be understanding of any inconveniences and to cooperate with law enforcement officers, carrying identification documents and observing the curfew.
It is unclear whether the raid yielded any results or if any "prohibited items" or suspicious individuals were found.
The operation comes a day after the assassination of General Igor Kirillov, commander of the Russian Radiological, Chemical, and Biological Defense Forces, in an explosion in Moscow. Multiple media outlets reported the SBU as being behind the attack.
The SBU reportedly considered General Kirillov a "war criminal and an absolutely legitimate target." Moscow condemned the killing as a terrorist attack and vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
8 Comments
Jordan
The SBU should be ashamed of themselves for carrying out these unnecessary and intrusive searches.
Answer
This is a dangerous precedent. If the SBU can get away with this, who knows what they will do next?
Jordan
This is a blatant violation of basic human rights! The SBU has no right to search people without cause.
The Truth
This is counterproductive and will only make people more fearful and distrustful of the government.
ZmeeLove
This is a step backwards for Ukraine. The government should be focused on protecting its citizens, not harassing them.
Michelangelo
I am confident that the SBU will continue to protect Ukraine from its enemies.
Leonardo
I'm glad that the SBU is taking steps to ensure the safety of those living and working in the government quarter.
Stan Marsh
This is an attack on freedom of movement. People should be able to go about their business without being harassed by the authorities.