Border Guard Service explains circumstances of Ukrainian officials' detention in Moldova

Official version from the State Border Guard Service

The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine commented on the circumstances under which a group of Ukrainian officials was detained on the territory of the neighbouring republic. According to SBGS representative Demchenko, the incident occurred while performing official duties on the Dniester River.

According to the official spokesperson, the personnel spotted a citizen attempting to cross the border by swimming across the river. Border guards immediately set out in a motorboat to search for the offender. Despite the fugitive's resistance, the Ukrainians managed to catch up with him. However, during a manoeuvre, the boat's engine stalled, and a strong current carried the vessel to the opposite, Moldovan bank.

Events following arrival on the bank

As soon as the boat reached Moldovan territory, it was spotted by local residents. They helped pull the vessel onto the shallows. Shortly after, police arrived at the scene and detained the man who had attempted to cross the border illegally. At present, the location of the detained fugitive is unknown.

Legal qualification of the incident

It was previously established that a criminal case had been opened in Moldova regarding the Ukrainian border guards. The main basis for opening the case was crossing the state border by boat.