In Lviv, Ukraine, a police officer lost her life in an explosion that occurred on February 22, with authorities suspecting a link to a terrorist act orchestrated by Russian operatives. The incident resulted in injuries to 25 others, including law enforcement personnel.
According to Ukraine’s Interior Minister, Ihor Klymenko, surveillance footage played a crucial role in tracing the movements of the suspect and capturing the moment the explosive device was planted. The suspect was apprehended within ten hours of the explosion.
Klymenko stated, “There are strong reasons to believe that this crime was commissioned by Russia. This is not the first time the enemy has deliberately set lethal traps for Ukrainian law enforcement, often using recruited citizens to carry out such acts.” The investigation continues as authorities work to uncover further details.
The explosions occurred shortly after police responded to a report involving two unidentified men who had vandalized a local store. The Security Service of Ukraine reported that the blasts happened as police units arrived at the scene.
“Emergency services received a call about two men in dark clothing damaging blinds and breaking into a local shop. Police crews arrived shortly after, and then the explosions occurred,” the Security Service noted.
Among the injured were members of the National Police and National Guard, who were on duty to maintain public order, as well as civilians.
Authorities later arrested a 33-year-old woman from the Rivne region, believed to be the perpetrator of the explosions. She allegedly manufactured homemade explosive devices and placed them in predetermined locations under the guidance of a Russian intelligence handler. Her arrest took place near the town of Staryi Sambir.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the explosive devices detonated after being hidden in trash bins. The moment of the planting was captured on surveillance cameras.
The Security Service of Ukraine is conducting a preliminary investigation into the case, which is classified under Article 258 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code for terrorism resulting in death, and Article 263 for illegal handling of weapons and explosives. The most severe charges carry a potential life sentence.
A police officer was killed and 25 others injured in a Lviv explosion linked to a suspected terrorist act. Authorities arrested a woman believed to be responsible, with potential ties to Russian operatives.