Six Bulgarians Sentenced for Espionage: Collaborating with Russia Exposed

Six Bulgarians have been sentenced for spying on Russian adversaries, including journalists in the UK. The Old Bailey revealed that this group was well-compensated for their covert operations.

The group’s leader, Orlin Roussev, received 10 years and eight months, while his second-in-command, Biser Dzhambazov, was given 10 years and two months. Other members, including Katrin Ivanova, received sentences ranging between six and nine years.

This spy ring targeted journalists like Christo Grozev and Roman Dobrokhotov, who had exposed nerve gas attacks tied to Russian dissidents, and conducted operations not just in the UK, but also in Austria, Spain, Germany, and Montenegro. The trial shed light on a significant foreign intelligence operation, showcasing communications about surveillance, abduction plans, and even murder.

In a historic first for the UK, the case outlined the workings of a Russian spy cell, revealing thousands of messages coordinating their activities. New evidence also linked Jan Marsalek, the group’s handler, to this network. Marsalek is currently on the run, wanted for fraud related to the Wirecard scandal.

The group, whimsically calling themselves the “minions” after the animated characters, often referenced the Russian GRU, the military intelligence agency, in their communications. A police raid in 2023 at their Norfolk hideout uncovered a treasure trove of equipment, including a Minion toy fitted with a camera.

During the sentencing, Justice Hilliard emphasized that this operation threatened journalistic freedoms, a cornerstone of democracy. He pointed out that using the UK as a base for espionage undermines its international alliances. The financial aspect was notable, with discussions of payments up to €1 million, which reflects the operation’s high value to Russian interests.

Onlookers have noted how this case illustrates a rising trend in state-sponsored espionage aimed at private individuals. Commander Dominic Murphy of Scotland Yard stressed that this incident exemplifies the increasing threat posed by foreign states outsourcing their spy work. Additionally, Security Minister Dan Jarvis highlighted that tough sentences like these serve as a warning to any who seek to harm the UK’s security.

The case also sparked discussions on social media about the implications of state-sponsored actions, with many users expressing concern over the safety of journalists. The incidents are a stark reminder of the challenges faced in preserving press freedom and public safety in today’s global landscape.



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