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A senior U.S. Army soldier has been arrested in the United Kingdom on suspicion of espionage related to Russia. The 41-year-old man was detained near Gloucester on Tuesday (November 10) as part of an investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing, according to NBC News. He remains in custody at a London police station.
The arrest was made under sections 1 and 3 of the National Security Act 2023, which pertain to obtaining or disclosing protected information and assisting a foreign intelligence service. CNN reports that searches are being conducted at two locations in Gloucestershire as part of the investigation.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, stating, "This important arrest involves allegations of espionage, which is of the utmost concern to the United States and our allies." He added that the FBI "has no tolerance for anyone who breaks their oath to the United States and whose actions endanger our national security and that of our partners."
Brig. Gen. Sean Stinchon, commanding general of U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command, described the alleged conduct as a "sobering reminder that insider threats are real and persistent," according to BBC. He praised the professionalism and teamwork of the U.K. and the FBI throughout the investigation.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans from Counter Terrorism Policing London called the arrest "significant" and noted that the investigation is ongoing. The arrest is not linked to any other ongoing counter-terror operations, but it comes amid heightened tensions regarding threats from hostile states like Russia and Iran.
The soldier, who was based at Imjin Barracks in Innsworth, Gloucestershire, can be held without charge for up to 14 days under the National Security Act 2023. The investigation continues as authorities work closely with U.S. and British agencies.