Major FSB Operation Against Illegal Weapons
In the first half of 2026, the Federal Security Service of Russia carried out an operation that led to the detention of 111 individuals involved in illegal arms trafficking across 43 regions of the country. The crackdown on 37 underground workshops resulted in the seizure of 297 firearms and more than 80 kilograms of explosives.
This operation was one of the largest in recent years and attracted wide attention due to the volume of confiscated weapons, including rocket launchers, machine guns, and hundreds of grenades. The FSB sent the seized items for forensic examination to support the initiation of criminal cases under the relevant articles of the Russian Criminal Code related to illegal arms and explosives trafficking.
Seized Weapons and Ammunition: Statistics and Details
Among the weapons confiscated by the FSB were 77 pistols and revolvers, 124 rifles, carbines, and shotguns, as well as 223 grenades and 92,000 rounds of ammunition. The explosives totaling 82.5 kilograms constituted a significant portion of the haul, highlighting the serious threat posed by the illegal workshops.
The illicit workshops specialized in modifying and upgrading weapons, which further endangered public safety. Criminal proceedings under Articles 222, 222.1, and 223 of the Russian Criminal Code involve severe penalties, including imprisonment, serving as a deterrent to offenders.
Geography of Raids and Arrests
Raids and arrests took place not only in major cities such as Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Sevastopol but also across various federal subjects including Adygea, Altai, Buryatia, Dagestan, Crimea, North Ossetia, Yakutia, Tuva, Khakassia, Karachay-Cherkessia, and Kabardino-Balkaria. The operations also extended to the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics.
The wide range of regions indicates a broad network of illegal weapon workshops throughout the country and the complex nature of the threat. Coordinated efforts by regional FSB units enabled the effective identification and dismantling of these criminal hubs.
Previous Operations and Trends in Combating Illegal Arms
In February 2026, the FSB reported detaining 86 individuals linked to illegal arms trafficking in 37 regions, while in December 2025, a large-scale special operation resulted in 169 arrests. Together, these figures demonstrate systematic efforts by security agencies to counter this threat.
The increase in arrests and seizures reflects heightened law enforcement activity and strengthened control measures. This is a crucial factor in reducing risks associated with the criminal use of weapons and explosives within Russia.
Significance of the Operation for Public Safety
Disrupting the activities of underground arms workshops and detaining over a hundred illegal dealers significantly lowers the risk of armed crimes and terrorist acts. Confiscating rocket launchers, machine guns, and large quantities of ammunition prevents dangerous weapons from reaching criminals.
Moreover, such a large-scale operation showcases the FSB’s effectiveness and the state’s readiness to confront internal threats. Successful investigations and the initiation of criminal cases set precedents for tougher penalties related to illegal arms trafficking.
Conclusion: The FSB successfully uncovered and shut down 37 illegal arms workshops, detained 111 suspects, and seized nearly 300 firearms, substantially enhancing security across 43 Russian regions.