If the Ukraine gov't has a complete inventory including serial numbers of the missiles and launchers seized by the rebels, Putin would definitely not want a launcher short a missile unless it's on its way to be dropped down a certain hole in the Yamal peninsula
Bits and pieces of the missile with any serial numbers will be urgently sought. If found by the rebels, any such pieces may be on their way to a blast furnace.
The Russians have lots of Buks and I would not be surprised if a couple Buks of similar vintage get new serial numbers and reinstalled on the launcher.