The State Security Service of Georgia [SSSG] detained two Ukrainian citizens for attempting to smuggle 2.4 kg of a powerful explosive substance, hexogen, into the country.

“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 kg of hexogen, carefully concealed in secret compartments. For public clarity, hexogen is a high-powered explosive, stronger than TNT.

The investigation has established at this stage that the explosive substance was handed over to the Ukrainian citizen M.S., the driver of the aforementioned vehicle, by an unidentified person on Ukrainian territory. The explosive substance was placed in concealed boxes, and the driver was told that after crossing Georgia’s border, another person in contact with them would remove the said substance. Ukrainian citizen D.Zh, who contacted driver M.S. and removed the large quantity of explosive substance placed in the containers, has already been arrested.

Searches conducted resulted in the seizure of 8 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 SSSG expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Prosecutor’s Office for their significant contribution to this successful operation”, - reads the statement.