Alleged Russian Spies in Australia to Face Fresh Espionage Conspiracy Charge
Two people on trial for espionage in Australia now face an additional conspiracy charge. According to ABC News, prosecutors have widened the allegation that the accused passed sensitive defence information to Russia.
Australian authorities said two people already on trial for espionage will now face an additional conspiracy charge. According to ABC News, prosecutors are widening the allegation that the accused had built a structured network to pass sensitive defence information to Russia.
Prosecutors said encrypted communications seized during the investigation suggest the accused were attempting to collect technical data from specific military exercises. The new charge covers an alleged years-long pattern of coordinated covert intelligence activity, including financial and logistical arrangements.
The Department of Home Affairs described the case as one of the most extensive foreign espionage investigations the country has run in recent years. The next court hearing is expected next month; defence lawyers told ABC they intend to formally contest the additional conspiracy charge in court.
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