Employee of British embassy in Berlin charged with spying for Russia
August 12, 2021 1 Comment
An employee of the British embassy in Berlin has been arrested by German authorities, who charged him with spying for the intelligence services of the Russian Federation, according to reports. The German newsmagazine Focus said on Wednesday that the employee is a 57-year-old British citizen. He was reportedly arrested on Tuesday by Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA). His arrest took place in Potsdam, a city located southeast of Berlin. His arrest is believed to have come as a result of a joint investigation by British and German authorities.
There appears to be some confusion about the man’s position at the British embassy. In some reports, he is referred to as a “liaison officer”, a term that describes diplomatic personnel whose job is to exchange security-related information with the relevant authorities of the host-country. However, other reports suggest that the man is locally based in Berlin, and was working as support personnel at the British embassy, without having been granted diplomatic status. This would mean that he does not have diplomatic immunity in Germany or elsewhere.
It is also believed that BKA officers searched the man’s home and workplace. According to Focus, he has been charged with carrying out espionage activities on behalf of Russian intelligence. German prosecutors said he began working for Russian intelligence in November of 2020 at the very latest. During that time, he allegedly provided classified information to his Russian handlers on at least one occasion, in exchange for cash. Media reports suggest that the information he allegedly gave the Russians relates to counter-terrorism operations. No further information is known about the case at this stage.
► Author: Joseph Fitsanakis | Date: 12 August 2021 | Permalink
intelNews.org 
Its good that the British and German security authorities combined their investigations so successfully. Even under the one government organizations can refuse to compare notes – like lack of CIA communications with the FBI, pre 9/11.
Unexplained wealth is an easy one to miss. The CIA’s Aldrich Ames spent big on an average salary for ages before being noticed – see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aldrich_Ames#CIA_response .
I’m guessing the rapid collapse of Afghan Government forces against the Taliban will cause considerable soul searching and finger pointing at Langley and DoD. The security implications are dire. There is a likelihood Afghanistan will again host AQ and now IS terrorism schools with bomb making classes for use against targets in the West. This is especially against Western airports, passenger aircraft, trains, buses, tourist sites and surprises.