The UK’s Crown Prosecitation Service (CPS) has authorised charges against a sixth individual, Tihomir Ivanchev, for suspected espionage on behalf of Russia. Ivanchev, who hails from Bulgaria, is accused of conspiring to obtain, collect, record, publish or disclose documents or information of potential detriment to the safety and interest of the UK.
The alleged spy was arrested on 7th February following an investigation led by the Metropolitan Police Counter-Terrorism Command. This arrest comes after five other Bulgarian nationals were charged with conspiracy to collect information beneficial to an antagonist in September 2023. These individuals are awaiting trial due to commence in October 2024.
Ivanchev, employed as a painter and decorator in North London, made an appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court last Wednesday, declining to declare a plea. Denied bail, he was held in custody and is due to appear next at the Central Criminal Court (the Old Bailey) on 15th March.
The allegations against Ivanchev are connected to five other previously charged suspects. His alleged involvement was uncovered whilst translating group communication. Accused of belonging to a Russian security services’ spy cell, he is suspected of supervising targets and conveying gathered information back to Russia.
This information was gathered from an article which first appeared in JURIST – News.