Three Arrested in Essex Over Suspected Ties to Russian Intelligence

British counter-terrorism police have arrested three people in the town of Grays, Essex, on suspicion of working with Russian intelligence services. The operation, carried out on September 17, involved officers from London’s Counter Terrorism Command and is being treated as part of the UK’s wider effort to counter foreign espionage and interference.

The suspects include two men, aged 41 and 46, and a 35-year-old woman. Police confirmed that the 41-year-old man and the woman were detained at one address, while the second man was taken into custody at another nearby property. All three were arrested under the National Security Act 2023, which introduced sweeping new powers to prosecute activities linked to hostile foreign states. The law carries potential penalties of up to 14 years in prison for assisting foreign intelligence operations.

After questioning, the three individuals were released on conditional bail, pending further investigation. Authorities did not provide details of the evidence but stated that searches were carried out at the two properties involved.

Commander Dominic Murphy, who heads the UK’s Counter Terrorism Command, said the arrests reflected a growing challenge of hostile states attempting to use British nationals as “proxies” in covert operations. He pointed to earlier cases where individuals linked to Russia were accused of involvement in criminal acts designed to destabilize European security, including sabotage attempts and arson plots tied to the war in Ukraine.

The arrests come amid heightened tensions between London and Moscow, with UK officials warning repeatedly that Russia has expanded its use of covert influence campaigns in Europe. The case is among the first high-profile examples of the National Security Act being applied to alleged espionage activities since it came into force.

Investigators stressed that inquiries remain ongoing, and more evidence will be required before any formal charges are brought. However, the move underscores the UK government’s determination to clamp down on suspected Russian intelligence activities and to strengthen its defenses against foreign interference.