Two foreign nationals attempt to set fire to substation in Chernivtsi, west Ukraine

Law enforcement officers have reported foiling an attempt to set fire to a substation that supplies power to critical infrastructure facilities in Bukovyna.

Source: Chernivtsi Oblast Prosecutor's Office; Security Service of Ukraine (SSU)

Details: In early August 2026, an attempt was made to set fire to a power substation in Chernivtsi that supplies power to a number of critical companies in the region.

The fire was quickly extinguished, and the technical equipment was not damaged.

Investigators say two foreign nationals were involved in the arson [the SSU says the suspects are citizens of a Middle Eastern country – ed.]. The men agreed to set fire to the power facility in exchange for money. Prosecutors said investigators are currently working to identify those behind the organisation of the crime.

After receiving the assignment, the men began preparing. They studied the area around the substation, monitored the situation and purchased fuel and lubricants shortly before the attack.

When they decided to act, one of them entered the substation grounds and set fire to two transformers. His accomplice remained outside and kept watch to ensure they were not spotted.

Both men fled after the arson. The SSU said its officers quickly identified the perpetrators and detained them in Chernivtsi within 24 hours.

The men have been served with notices of suspicion of a completed attempted act of sabotage (Article 28.2, Article 15.2 and Article 113.2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

The court remanded them in custody without the right to bail.

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