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Three Bulgarians Convicted of Industrial-Scale Espionage for Russia

Three Bulgarian nationals were found guilty of spying for Russia, putting lives at risk through their surveillance of Kremlin opponents across Europe.

Overview

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A London jury convicted Katrin Ivanova, Vanya Gaberova, and Tihomir Ivanchev of espionage for Russia, revealing a sophisticated operation involving threats against journalists and military targets. The trio, entangled in personal relationships, denied awareness of the espionage plot, while prosecutors outlined severe actions planned, including kidnappings. Their operations reportedly spanned several countries from 2020 to 2023. The group’s ringleader, Orlin Roussev, had already pleaded guilty, and the police uncovered significant surveillance equipment during raids, indicating high-level espionage on behalf of the Kremlin.

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Analysis

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  • Three Bulgarian nationals in Britain were convicted for espionage on behalf of Russia, accused of conducting surveillance across Europe on perceived Kremlin opponents, and threatening lives.
  • The defendants, claiming ignorance of their actions, were found to be part of a larger organized espionage network directed by Russian operatives, employing sophisticated tactics and technology.
  • Investigators uncovered extensive planning and equipment for espionage activities, debunking the defendants' claims of deception, showcasing a serious security threat.

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FAQ

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The primary targets included investigative journalists Christo Grozev and Roman Dobrokhotov, as well as a US military base in Germany where Ukrainian soldiers were training.

The spy ring used sophisticated methods including fake identities, covert recording devices, advanced technology, and even considered 'honeytrap' plots against targets.

The operations were directed by Orlin Roussev, who received instructions from Jan Marsalek, an intermediary for the Russian Intelligence Services.

The espionage activities were conducted on an industrial scale across Europe from August 2020 to February 2023.

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