Grenade at a shopping center in Kharkiv: Man detained for threatening to explode an explosive device
In Kharkiv, a man unexpectedly attempted to carry out a terrorist act at a shopping center by threatening to detonate an explosive device, but was swiftly apprehended by the police. This incident occurred at the end of last week and caused widespread public concern due to its threatening nature and public safety implications. According to official information from the Kharkiv region police, a conflict between a local resident and an unknown individual escalated into a dangerous situation that could have ended in tragedy. The 33-year-old man, who initially behaved aggressively and unjustifiably, returned to the shopping complex already armed with a suspicious find — an F-1 grenade and a lighter. It is known that the man wanted to demonstrate his strength and assert his point of view using an explosive device. His actions revealed a deliberate aggression, which he tried to justify solely by the desire to intimidate those present. Law enforcement reacted instantly. Together with patrol officers, they quickly detained the suspect and took him to the police station for further investigation. During a search of his residence, another grenade was found, indicating his possible involvement in a broader range of criminal activities. The detainee had previously been convicted for property crimes, and this situation once again highlights his irresponsibility and potentially negative behavioral trajectory. The suspect has been officially charged under Part 1 of Article 263 and Part 4 of Article 296 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The first clause pertains to illegal handling of weapons, combat ammunition, or explosive substances, while the second covers hooliganism involving the use of weapons or other means that caused significant consequences. Penalties under these articles include serious imprisonment of up to seven years. This incident once again underscores the need for increased attention to safety in public places and enhanced preventive work with individuals involved in criminal circles. It is recalled that at the end of May in Zhytomyr, a similar case ended tragically — a man threw a grenade near a store, resulting in six people being injured, and the suspect was detained. Such examples emphasize the importance of prompt law enforcement response and the need to strengthen security measures in crowded city areas.