An incident involving an armed attacker occurred in Kharkiv, who opened fire near a residential area, causing panic among local residents
According to the latest police reports, in the early hours of May 31, in the city’s central district on Pershotravneva Avenue, around 15:44, the suspect dressed in military uniform began firing an automatic rifle into the air. Witnesses reported that the assailant periodically discharged bursts towards the nearby buildings, creating an atmosphere of tension and fear among residents. The information quickly spread among the local population and reached the police. Law enforcement units, including the most advanced special forces, swiftly arrived at the scene and began active measures to neutralize the attacker. At the same time, according to the Kharkiv region police press service, a special operation codenamed "Thunder" was initiated, aiming to apprehend the armed man and eliminate any potential threat to civilians. During the arrest, the suspect, who was identified as a 43-year-old serviceman wanted by authorities, refused to surrender voluntarily. At one point, he detonated a grenade, creating additional risks and complicating the situation. However, thanks to the coordinated actions of the special forces and the use of necessary tactical equipment, the man was neutralized without further injuries among civilians or officers. Overall, the operation lasted over two hours, ending approximately at 17:45. During this period, the situation remained controlled, and the dangerous individual was detained and taken to the police station for investigative procedures and clarification of the incident’s circumstances. The police report that the detainee was wanted for military service, and possessed equipment and weapons, indicating possible preparation for more serious crimes. Despite the high tension and the prolonged special operation, no civilians or law enforcement personnel were injured. Criminal proceedings have already been initiated under Article 296 Part 4 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which pertains to hooliganism with the use of weapons. Investigative actions are ongoing, including an assessment of the suspect’s motives. Specialists are working to clarify all details and to explore any possible links of this incident with other criminal situations in the region. This incident once again underscores the importance of strengthening preventive measures and enhancing the readiness of security forces to respond to challenges arising in a city with a multiethnic population and a high level of social tension. Local authorities and law enforcement officials assure that they will do everything possible to ensure residents’ safety and to respond swiftly to similar cases in the future, in order to prevent such situations from recurring.