In a major national security investigation, three Bulgarian nationals have been arrested and charged as suspected Russian spies in the UK. The defendants, who have been remanded in custody since February, are accused of working for the Russian security services. They have been charged with possessing identity documents with improper intent, including fake passports and identity cards from various countries. Counter-terrorism detectives from the Metropolitan Police, responsible for espionage cases, made the arrests under the Official Secrets Act. The defendants have lived in the UK for several years, holding different jobs and residing in suburban properties.
One of the accused, Mr. Roussev, has a history of business dealings in Russia and worked in the financial services sector before owning a business related to signals intelligence. Another defendant, Mr. Dzhambazov, works as a driver for hospitals, while Ms. Ivanova is a laboratory assistant in a private health business. They both moved to the UK around ten years ago and were involved in community organizations that aided Bulgarian people. Mr. Dzhambazov and Ms. Ivanova also worked for electoral commissions in London, facilitating voting for Bulgarian citizens residing abroad.
The investigation and subsequent trial highlight the increasing concern of counter-terrorism police regarding state threats and espionage, particularly those involving Russia. Recent incidents, such as the attempted murder of former double-agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter with the nerve agent Novichok, have raised alarm bells. The victims survived but suffered serious health issues, and a local woman died after being exposed to the nerve agent.
The three defendants are due to face trial at the Old Bailey in London in January. However, they have not yet entered pleas to the charges. This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing intelligence operations carried out by Russian agents and the potential risks they pose to national security. It also emphasizes the importance of increased vigilance and collaboration between intelligence agencies to counter such threats effectively
Three Bulgarian Nationals Arrested and Charged as Suspected Russian Spies in UK Security Investigation
