Three people have been arrested on suspicion of spying for Russia following a counter-terrorism investigation. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrests involved two men aged 41 and 46, and a 35-year-old woman.
Officers arrested the suspects at two separate addresses in Grays, Essex, on suspicion of assisting the Russian intelligence service. All three were taken to a police station in London for questioning.
Counter-terrorism investigation
The arrests followed a Counter Terrorism Policing investigation into suspected National Security Act offences. The operation represents part of ongoing efforts to tackle foreign intelligence activities on British soil.
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Counter Terrorism Command, said investigations are revealing an increasing number of "proxies" being recruited by foreign intelligence services. He highlighted the growing threat of individuals being approached to carry out activities for foreign states.
Wagner Group connection
Murphy referenced a recent case where two young British men await sentencing after being recruited by the Wagner Group to carry out arson at a Ukrainian-linked warehouse. However, he emphasised that today's arrests are "in no way connected to that investigation".
The commander issued a warning to anyone who might be contacted by foreign states to carry out criminal activity. "This kind of activity will be investigated and anyone found to be involved can expect to be prosecuted and there are potentially very serious consequences for those who are convicted," Murphy said.
All three suspects have been released on bail while the investigation continues. The case highlights ongoing concerns about foreign intelligence operations targeting the UK.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
