Authorities in the United Kingdom announced the arrest of five individuals on charges tied to alleged espionage for Russia. The operation was led by the counterterrorism division of the metropolitan police and took place earlier this year, with details released through a national security press briefing reported by the BBC. The case centers on a security investigation into possible foreign intelligence activity within the UK, and several suspects face serious charges related to illicit document fabrication and unlawful foreign influence.
The three Bulgarian nationals identified in the charges are said to have forged documents including passports and identity cards from multiple European countries such as France, Italy, and Spain. The individuals named in the proceedings are Orlin Roussev, aged 45, Bizer Dzhambazov, aged 41, and Katrin Ivanova, aged 31. Each has reportedly lived in the United Kingdom for more than ten years and has been involved in professional or civic activities while residing there. Public reporting indicates that Roussev previously worked in the financial sector and later established a business connected to that field. Dzhambazov and Ivanova were described as participating in and supporting initiatives that assist Bulgarian citizens living in the UK, including efforts related to facilitating voting for non resident Bulgarians in elections.
declaration before a judge
Officials did not disclose the identities of the two remaining arrestees from February 8 who are accused under the Official Secrets Act. The available information notes a man aged 31 and a woman aged 29, both reported to reside in London. Bail was granted to two of the suspects, while the others remain in custody as they await formal proceedings. The hearing in question was scheduled to take place at a central court in London, commonly referred to as the Old Bailey, with further procedural details not being released at this time.
The counterterrorism unit within Scotland Yard has signaled that resources will be increased to confront possible espionage activity in the years ahead. While intelligence work in this area has intensified, authorities stress that investigations are ongoing and that legal processes will determine the outcomes of the cases. In past decades British security services have confronted espionage linked to Russian interests on the island, including notorious cases of alleged poisoning and attempted assassinations that have shaped public debate about national security in the United Kingdom.