Importance Score: 78 / 100 🔴
Six Bulgarian nationals have been handed down significant prison terms after being convicted of spying for the Kremlin, both in the United Kingdom and across various locations in Europe. The case involved a sophisticated intelligence operation that posed a threat to national security. The individuals were found to have been involved in monitoring journalists and dissidents, highlighting the severity of their offenses.
Bulgarians Sentenced for Espionage on Behalf of Russia
During an extensive trial held in London’s Old Bailey court, it was revealed that the group received substantial payments for their activities. These actions included surveillance of two journalists who had reported on nerve agent attacks targeting Russian dissidents Alexei Navalny and Sergei Skripal.
Serious National Security Risk
According to the sentencing judge, the group’s actions represented a grave danger to the national security of the UK.
Key Figures and Their Sentences
The sentences for the individuals involved reflect the severity of their roles and the impact of their espionage activities:
- Orlin Roussev, 47 (Ringleader): Imprisoned for 10 years and eight months.
- Biser Dzhambazov, 44 (Deputy): Sentenced to 10 years and two months.
- Katrin Ivanova, 33 (Former Partner of Dzhambazov): Received a prison term of nine years and eight months.
- Tihomir Ivanchev, 39: Jailed for between six and eight years.
- Ivan Stoyanov, 33: Jailed for between six and eight years.
- Vanya Gaberova, 30: Jailed for between six and eight years.
Roussev, Dzhambazov, and Stoyanov admitted guilt to the spying charges. The remaining three were found guilty following a trial in March.
Scope of the Espionage Operations
Prosecutors informed the court that the group had conducted operations in several countries, including the UK, Austria, Spain, Germany, and Montenegro.
Targeting Journalists and Dissidents
Their targets included:
- Investigative journalists Christo Grozev and Roman Dobrokhotov.
- Russian dissidents.
- Political figures.
- Ukrainian soldiers undergoing training at a German military base.
The case was described as “one of the largest” foreign intelligence operations uncovered in the UK. It centered on six specific assignments carried out by the spy cell.
Inside the Russian Spy Cell: Tactics and Communications
The trial provided an unprecedented look into the workings of a Russian operational spy cell within a UK criminal court. Evidence included thousands of messages detailing surveillance activities, photographs, videos of targets, and discussions regarding plans involving kidnapping and potential killings.
The Role of Jan Marsalek
Evidence presented during the trial unveiled new information regarding Jan Marsalek, a fugitive residing overseas who directed the unit on behalf of Russian intelligence services.
Marsalek’s Background
Marsalek, an Austrian national, is currently wanted in Germany on fraud charges linked to the financial services company Wirecard. It is believed that he is currently in hiding in Moscow.
“Minions” and Telegram Communications
The court was informed that the spy ring referred to themselves as “minions,” drawing inspiration from the characters in the “Despicable Me” film franchise. They frequently mentioned the Russian GRU agency – its military intelligence service – in their Telegram communications.
Discovery of Spy Equipment
A police raid on the Norfolk guesthouse used as the operation’s base in 2023 led to the discovery of numerous gadgets, including a Minion cuddly toy equipped with a hidden camera.
Financial Motivations and Impact on UK Allies
During sentencing, Judge Nicholas Hilliard identified Roussev as the leader but noted that financial gain motivated all involved. Discussions within the group mentioned sums up to €1 million (£840,000), underscoring the significance of their covert work to Russia.
Mr. Justice Hilliard emphasized that using the UK as a base for planning espionage operations was a “very serious offence” that “undermines this country’s standing with allies.” He added that “targeting journalists… undermines freedom of the press, one of our core democratic values.”
Reactions and Sentencing Details
The Russian embassy in London has not issued a statement regarding the case. The Kremlin has consistently denied allegations of espionage.
Sentencing Variations and Mitigation
While conspiracy to spy carries a maximum sentence of 14 years, Roussev, Dzhambazov, and Stoyanov received some leniency due to their guilty pleas.
Confiscation Order
Roussev was ordered to pay a confiscation order of £180,768 in ill-gotten gains by August 2025.
Gaberova’s sentence was reduced to six years, eight months, and three weeks following mitigation.
Gaberova’s Defense
Her barrister, Anthony Metzer KC, argued that she had been “controlled, coerced into this conspiracy by Mr Dzhambazov,” who was her lover and also involved with Ivanova.
The court was informed that Gaberova had been diagnosed with depression, panic disorder, claustrophobia, and anxiety.
Law Enforcement Perspective
The Met Police’s Counter Terrorism Command characterized the case as “a clear example” of the growing threat of state espionage.
Outsourcing Espionage: A New Trend
Commander Dominic Murphy noted that it “highlights a relatively new phenomenon whereby espionage is being ‘outsourced’ by certain states.”
Government Response
Security Minister Dan Jarvis stated: “These substantial sentences should send a clear warning to anyone seeking to threaten our security, harm the UK, and compromise the safety of the public.”