In an archaeological breakthrough spy satellite imagery has led to the site of a Seventh century battle in present day Iraq.

U.S. Spy Satellite Images Help Discover Ancient Battle Site

The famous white beluga whale, which was suspected to be a spy of Russia, was probably guarding 'Kremlin property' when it was found dead off the coast of Norway, according to a new documentary.

The whale,&nbsp;nicknamed Hvaldimir, which is a combination of the word for whale, hval and the first name of Russian President Vladimir Putin, was discovered floating at the Risavika Bay in southern Norway in September.

The fishermen were the first to spot the 14ft whale near the northern island of Ingoya in April 2019. The spy whale was wearing a harness which had a small camera mounted over it and a buckle which had the text marked on it "Equipment St Petersburg."

This discovery had fuelled assumptions that the beluga was probably a&nbsp;"spy whale".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-plans-to-introduce-ministry-of-sex-in-russia-amid-drooping-birth-rate-774906">Putin plans to introduce 'ministry of sex' in Russia amid drooping birth rate</a>

After carrying out investigations for 10 months, the makers of the BBC documentary Secrets of the Spy Whale found that some evidence hinted that the whale was being trained as a covert "guard whale".

"Our latest findings about the potential role that Hvaldimir had been trained to do brings us closer to solving the mystery, but they also prompt many further questions about what Russia might be seeking to guard in the Arctic, and why," said Jennifer Shaw, director of the film, while speaking to The Observer.

<h2>How do animals turn into guards?</h2>

While looking into the mystery, the team reached out to a former dolphin trainer and veterans of an early US Navy programme who explained how these creatures turned into guards.

Speaking to the newspaper, Blair Irvine said that the movements of swimmers create bubbles which then create noise.

Because the hearing of the dolphin is so sensitive, it becomes the best method for tracking intruders.

Shaw further told the newspaper that Hvaldimir was also trained in a similar way and was seen placing his nose on anything, which he made a target.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says 'Unacceptable to Offer Russia Concessions on Ukraine'

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According to the expert, it suggested that Beluga was recruited as part of a security patrol and maybe not as spy.

On September 1, Hvaldimir was found dead and the animal rights groups had said that it was shot.

In an autopsy, a 35cm in length and 3cm wide stick was found stuck in the mouth of the animal and police said Hvaldimir also had some "completely superficial" injuries, although "there was no evidence suggesting that Hvaldimir was shot".

"There is nothing in the investigations that have been carried out to establish that it is human activity that has directly led to Hvaldimir's death," said police.

(With inputs from agencies)

The famous white beluga whale, which was suspected to be a spy of Russia, was probably guarding 'Kremlin property' when it was found dead off the coast of Norway, according to a new documentary.

The famous white beluga whale, which was suspected to be a spy of Russia, was probably guarding 'Kremlin property' when it was found dead off the coast of Norway, according to a new documentary. The whale, nicknamed Hvaldimir, which is a combination of the word for whale, hval and the first name of Russian President Vladimir Putin, was discovered floating at the Risavika Bay in southern Norway in September. The fishermen were the first to spot the 14ft whale near the northern island of Ingoya in April 2019. The spy whale was wearing a harness which had a small camera mounted over it and a buckle which had the text marked on it "Equipment St Petersburg." This discovery had fuelled assumptions that the beluga was probably a "spy whale". Also Read: Putin plans to introduce 'ministry of sex' in Russia amid drooping birth rate After carrying out investigations for 10 months, the makers of the BBC documentary Secrets of the Spy Whale found that some evidence hinted that the whale was being trained as a covert "guard whale". "Our latest findings about the potential role that Hvaldimir had been trained to do brings us closer to solving the mystery, but they also prompt many further questions about what Russia might be seeking to guard in the Arctic, and why," said Jennifer Shaw, director of the film, while speaking to The Observer. How do animals turn into guards? While looking into the mystery, the team reached out to a former dolphin trainer and veterans of an early US Navy programme who explained how these creatures turned into guards. Speaking to the newspaper, Blair Irvine said that the movements of swimmers create bubbles which then create noise. Because the hearing of the dolphin is so sensitive, it becomes the best method for tracking intruders. Shaw further told the newspaper that Hvaldimir was also trained in a similar way and was seen placing his nose on anything, which he made a target. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says 'Unacceptable to Offer Russia Concessions on Ukraine' According to the expert, it suggested that Beluga was recruited as part of a security patrol and maybe not as spy. On September 1, Hvaldimir was found dead and the animal rights groups had said that it was shot. In an autopsy, a 35cm in length and 3cm wide stick was found stuck in the mouth of the animal and police said Hvaldimir also had some "completely superficial" injuries, although "there was no evidence suggesting that Hvaldimir was shot". "There is nothing in the investigations that have been carried out to establish that it is human activity that has directly led to Hvaldimir's death," said police. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian spy whale lost life while guarding ‘Kremlin property’ in Arctic: Report

China has sentenced a former employee working for one of his state agencies to death for State Secrets. China's Ministry of State security said that the Spy provided large number of top secret and classified State secrets to foreign intelligence agencies.

China Executed Spy For Leaking Secrets

A former CIA officer was sentenced on Wednesday to 10 years in prison after pleaded guilty to spying for China. Alexander Yuk Ching Ma, 71, was arrested in August 2020 after admitting to an undercover FBI agent that he sold US secrets to China.

Ex-CIA officer jailed after pleading guilty to spying for China

Setting an unbelievable Guinness World Record, traveller Indy Nelson visited every country in the world and also ended up getting detained on suspicion of being a spy in some of them.

He was able to navigate his way through various countries, like North Korea, and was also detained four times on suspicion of being a spy in Iran, Libya, Papua New Guinea, and Russia.

And now, after completing his travel, he holds&nbsp;the Guinness World Records title of being the man who has flown on the highest number of airlines.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vistara-to-operate-last-flight-on-nov-11-ahead-of-merger-with-air-india-754675">Vistara to operate last flight on Nov 11 ahead of merger with Air India</a>

Indy has boarded 170 unique airlines, most of which were during his 18-month trip to various countries, which he started in 2019, when he was 22.

The record was earlier held by a Japanese man named Ryuji Furusho, who had travelled on 156 airlines between 1996 and 2014.

<h2>How did Indy Nelson embark on a world trip?</h2>

Indy Nelson first thought of visiting every country on Earth while he was on a spring break trip to North Korea - which he found a “cool country”.

After graduating from college, the traveller took a loan of $80,000 and set off on his journey.

During his journey, he had various experiences, and even found himself in an active war zone.

Indy tried to avoid the conflict zones but he found Africa very difficult because of the volatile nature of some areas.&nbsp;

Indy was detained four times and was interrogated for a total of 24 hours.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Upscale travel soars among Americans&nbsp;

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“Things happen in 24, 48 hours. You can’t plan those things out. I feared for my life several times. There were definitely several times that I did not think that I was going to get out of that country. By the fourth time, it was like ’no big deal anymore'," Indy said.

The least favourite country of Indy was Comoros, which is a small group of islands off the southeastern coast of Africa. He loved Cambodia, on the other hand and enjoyed the “super friendly” locals.

He said that the way to deal with any kind of problem is to “think of it like a rollercoaster ride.”

“I’m small, 5 ft 4. I’ll bundle up into a little cocoon and put my feet into the back of the seat in front of me if no one’s there. I close my eyes and don’t get any headaches," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Setting an unbelievable Guinness World Record, traveller Indy Nelson visited every country in the world and also ended up getting detained on suspicion of being a spy in some of them.

Setting an unbelievable Guinness World Record, traveller Indy Nelson visited every country in the world and also ended up getting detained on suspicion of being a spy in some of them. He was able to navigate his way through various countries, like North Korea, and was also detained four times on suspicion of being a spy in Iran, Libya, Papua New Guinea, and Russia. And now, after completing his travel, he holds the Guinness World Records title of being the man who has flown on the highest number of airlines. Also Read: Vistara to operate last flight on Nov 11 ahead of merger with Air India Indy has boarded 170 unique airlines, most of which were during his 18-month trip to various countries, which he started in 2019, when he was 22. The record was earlier held by a Japanese man named Ryuji Furusho, who had travelled on 156 airlines between 1996 and 2014. How did Indy Nelson embark on a world trip? Indy Nelson first thought of visiting every country on Earth while he was on a spring break trip to North Korea - which he found a “cool country”. After graduating from college, the traveller took a loan of $80,000 and set off on his journey. During his journey, he had various experiences, and even found himself in an active war zone. Indy tried to avoid the conflict zones but he found Africa very difficult because of the volatile nature of some areas. Indy was detained four times and was interrogated for a total of 24 hours. Watch: Upscale travel soars among Americans “Things happen in 24, 48 hours. You can’t plan those things out. I feared for my life several times. There were definitely several times that I did not think that I was going to get out of that country. By the fourth time, it was like ’no big deal anymore'," Indy said. The least favourite country of Indy was Comoros, which is a small group of islands off the southeastern coast of Africa. He loved Cambodia, on the other hand and enjoyed the “super friendly” locals. He said that the way to deal with any kind of problem is to “think of it like a rollercoaster ride.” “I’m small, 5 ft 4. I’ll bundle up into a little cocoon and put my feet into the back of the seat in front of me if no one’s there. I close my eyes and don’t get any headaches," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Man creates world record by visiting every country, in some nations, proves he’s not a spy

A Taiwanese court has sentenced three former officials from the Military Intelligence Bureau to at least 10 months in prison, on Friday (Sep 6)&nbsp;after they were found guilty of creating a spy ring and passing secret intelligence to China following&nbsp;their retirement.&nbsp;

The suspect Chang Chao-jan has been sentenced to 18 months in prison, while former Major General Yueh Chih-chung and retired colonel Chou Tien-tzu were sentenced to 10 months and 14 months respectively.&nbsp;

However, their cases can still be appealed.&nbsp;

The other retired colonel implicated in the spy case, Wang Ta-wang was found not guilty and acquitted due to a lack of evidence, the Taipei Court stated.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-pays-taiwan-influencers-to-shoot-videos-in-xinjiang-to-diminish-its-negative-narratives-756187">Also read:&nbsp;China pays Taiwan influencers to shoot videos in Xinjiang, help refute negative narratives</a>

The four former military officers were indicted by the Taipei District Prosecutors Office for alleged violations of the National Intelligence Service Law and the National Security Act.&nbsp;

The former&nbsp;officers were charged with leaking information about Taiwan's intelligence sources, organisations, and personnel, and developing a spy ring on behalf of China.&nbsp;

<h2>Officers lured into spying, offering cash rewards and free trips</h2>

According to the prosecutors, Chang, Yueh, and Chou were recruited by Chinese intelligence, offering business incentives, cash rewards, and free trips, after their retirement.&nbsp;

The indictment stated that Chang was recruited when he travelled to China to help a former colleague arrested by the Chinese authorities in 1999. Later, he instructed the arrangement of trips for other retired military intelligence officers to visit China. These people would be either asked or "forced" to provide sensitive information.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: China prepares for military solution to Taiwan in 2027

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Yueh was recruited by Chang in 2012 when he wanted to visit relatives in China but was worried about being arrested by the Chinese authorities because of his former work, the prosecutor said.&nbsp;

Chang assured Yueh that he could return to Taiwan safely if he gave intelligence information to a Chinese intelligence officer, which he agreed to do.&nbsp;

However, Chou began working for the Chinese authorities after becoming involved in a real estate dispute in China's Hainan Province that year.&nbsp;

Moreover, Wang was also suspected of having been recruited through Chang, and shared information about his colleagues during a trip to China, according to prosecutors.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Taiwanese court has sentenced three former officials from the Military Intelligence Bureau to at least 10 months in prison, on Friday (Sep 6) after they were found guilty of creating a spy ring and passing secret intelligence to China following their retirement.

A Taiwanese court has sentenced three former officials from the Military Intelligence Bureau to at least 10 months in prison, on Friday (Sep 6) after they were found guilty of creating a spy ring and passing secret intelligence to China following their retirement. The suspect Chang Chao-jan has been sentenced to 18 months in prison, while former Major General Yueh Chih-chung and retired colonel Chou Tien-tzu were sentenced to 10 months and 14 months respectively. However, their cases can still be appealed. The other retired colonel implicated in the spy case, Wang Ta-wang was found not guilty and acquitted due to a lack of evidence, the Taipei Court stated. Also read: China pays Taiwan influencers to shoot videos in Xinjiang, help refute negative narratives The four former military officers were indicted by the Taipei District Prosecutors Office for alleged violations of the National Intelligence Service Law and the National Security Act. The former officers were charged with leaking information about Taiwan's intelligence sources, organisations, and personnel, and developing a spy ring on behalf of China. Officers lured into spying, offering cash rewards and free trips According to the prosecutors, Chang, Yueh, and Chou were recruited by Chinese intelligence, offering business incentives, cash rewards, and free trips, after their retirement. The indictment stated that Chang was recruited when he travelled to China to help a former colleague arrested by the Chinese authorities in 1999. Later, he instructed the arrangement of trips for other retired military intelligence officers to visit China. These people would be either asked or "forced" to provide sensitive information. Watch | Gravitas: China prepares for military solution to Taiwan in 2027 × Yueh was recruited by Chang in 2012 when he wanted to visit relatives in China but was worried about being arrested by the Chinese authorities because of his former work, the prosecutor said. Chang assured Yueh that he could return to Taiwan safely if he gave intelligence information to a Chinese intelligence officer, which he agreed to do. However, Chou began working for the Chinese authorities after becoming involved in a real estate dispute in China's Hainan Province that year. Moreover, Wang was also suspected of having been recruited through Chang, and shared information about his colleagues during a trip to China, according to prosecutors. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan: Former military officers sentenced to prison over spying for China

Turkish intelligence have uncovered a secret Israeli financial network. Tukiye says that this network was fueling covert Mossad operations on its soil. Take a look.

Turkiye: Mossad's financial network chief arrested

#Gravitas | A top New York official, who worked as an aide to Governor Kathy Hochul, has been charged with secretly acting as an agent of the Chinese government in exchange for millions of dollars in compensation and gifts, including salted duck. Linda Sun and her husband Chris Hu have plead not guilty to criminal charges before U.S. Magistrate.

Chinese Spy Arrested in US, Received Salted Ducks, Millions of Dollars to Buy Ferrari

Chinese students have been warned by China's top spy agency to be more careful with access to sensitive data. The agency advised students to stay away from foreign entities that might appear as "handsome men and beautiful women" who could fake their feelings and potentially lure them into spying, thereby compromising national security.

China warns against entrapment by foreign spies

A former aide to New York Governor Kathy Hochul was charged on Tuesday for acting as an undisclosed agent of the Chinese government. Watch in for more details!

New York 'governor' former aide Linda Sun charged with espionage

A beluga whale that was suspected of spying for Russia after being discovered in Norwegian waters 5 years ago has now been found dead. Watch in for more details!

Russian Spy Whale 'Hvaldimir' found dead in Norway, says reports

Taiwan's apex court has sentenced a father and son to eight years in prison for enticing active military officers to pass on secret information about the annual Han Kuang drills to China.&nbsp;

The two suspects, surnamed Huang, first contacted Chinese intelligence officials in 2015, while doing business in Xiamen, according to Taiwan-based Central News Agency (CNA).&nbsp;

The Supreme Court of Taiwan rejected the final appeals on Thursday, making their sentences definite.&nbsp;

The court further ordered the High Court to conduct a new trial.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-issues-up-to-13-years-of-prison-sentences-for-8-military-officers-to-spy-for-china-752924">Also read:&nbsp;Taiwan issues up to 13 years of prison sentences to 8 military officers for spying for China</a>

The suspects recruited two officers, Yeh and Su, in separate air defense and missile units, back in Taiwan.&nbsp;

After getting the documents promising allegiance to the cause, signed by them, Huang sent the two recruits of their spy ring on a trip overseas to meet Chinese officials.&nbsp;

Eight secret documents fell into the spy's hands

The group got their hands on eight secret documents about the Han Kuang exercises. Following this, they shared the information personally with China or sent images and graphics by phone messaging software.&nbsp;

The Huangs received USD 53,600 for their work, while Yeh was paid USD 6,582 and Su was paid USD 3,123, according to the prosecutors.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Pacific leaders reject call to break ties with Taiwan

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Earlier in April, the Tainan branch of the Taiwan High Court ruled that the evidence was clear that the Huangs had broken the National Security Act, the Classified National Security Information Protection Act, and anti-corruption legislation.&nbsp;

The Taiwan Supreme Court on Friday, ordered the confiscation of the profits and sentenced Yeh to seven years, while Su to six years.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan's apex court has sentenced a father and son to eight years in prison for enticing active military officers to pass on secret information about the annual Han Kuang drills to China.

Taiwan's apex court has sentenced a father and son to eight years in prison for enticing active military officers to pass on secret information about the annual Han Kuang drills to China. The two suspects, surnamed Huang, first contacted Chinese intelligence officials in 2015, while doing business in Xiamen, according to Taiwan-based Central News Agency (CNA). The Supreme Court of Taiwan rejected the final appeals on Thursday, making their sentences definite. The court further ordered the High Court to conduct a new trial. Also read: Taiwan issues up to 13 years of prison sentences to 8 military officers for spying for China The suspects recruited two officers, Yeh and Su, in separate air defense and missile units, back in Taiwan. After getting the documents promising allegiance to the cause, signed by them, Huang sent the two recruits of their spy ring on a trip overseas to meet Chinese officials. Eight secret documents fell into the spy's hands The group got their hands on eight secret documents about the Han Kuang exercises. Following this, they shared the information personally with China or sent images and graphics by phone messaging software. The Huangs received USD 53,600 for their work, while Yeh was paid USD 6,582 and Su was paid USD 3,123, according to the prosecutors. Watch | Pacific leaders reject call to break ties with Taiwan × Earlier in April, the Tainan branch of the Taiwan High Court ruled that the evidence was clear that the Huangs had broken the National Security Act, the Classified National Security Information Protection Act, and anti-corruption legislation. The Taiwan Supreme Court on Friday, ordered the confiscation of the profits and sentenced Yeh to seven years, while Su to six years. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan issues 8 year prison sentence to father, son in China spy case

Japan was forced to scramble fighter jets after a Chinese spy plane violated its airspace. Japan says a Chinese Y-9 reconnaissance plane flew over the Danjo Islands for around two minutes on Monday. #Gravitas brings you the details.

Japan scrambles fighter jets after China spy plane violates airspace | Gravitas

US authorities have arrested a Chinese spy in New York. Decades ago, Yuanjun Tang, 67, was one of the protesters calling for pro-democratic reforms in Beijing's Tiananmen Square. Why did Tang start spying for the PRC?

Chinese spy who was once a Tiananmen protester arrested in New York

A former Filipino mayor has fled the country after investigators punched holes in her stories about her parents, schooling and childhood. Investigators found Alice Guo did not have a Filipino mother, she was not home-schooled, she may not even have been a citizen of the Philippines. Was she then a Chinese spy?

The mysterious 'Chinese spy' who became a mayor in Philippines

A US resident has been charged and arrested for allegedly spying for China on pro-Democracy activists and dissidents whilst making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Justice (DoJ) said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The accused, identified as 67-year-old Yuanjun Tang, is a resident of Queens, New York. He acted as a Chinese agent between 2019 and 2023 under the direction of China's&nbsp;Ministry of State Security (MSS), its principal intelligence agency. Among either things, MSS is also responsible for espionage and political security functions.&nbsp;

Tang targeted US-based Chinese dissidents that Beijing views as potentially adverse. After collecting information on such individuals and groups, the data was delivered to the Politburo. Notably, he also helped MSS infiltrate a group chat on a messaging platform that was used by these dissidents.&nbsp;

Tang used an email account where he received regular instructions from his Chinese overlords regarding the targets to be tailed. He also travelled abroad three times for face-to-face meetings&nbsp;with MSS intelligence officers.&nbsp;

After arresting Tang, the law enforcement agencies recovered the numerous electronic devices and accounts that he used to communicate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Tang also made materially false statements to the FBI. He falsely claimed that he was no longer able to access an email account through which he had communicated with his MSS handler through draft emails," DoJ added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-spy-balloon-chinese-companies-hit-with-us-trade-restrictions-720176">Watch |&nbsp;Chinese spy balloon: Chinese companies hit with US trade restrictions</a>

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<h2>What has Tang been charged with?</h2>

The NY resident has been charged with one count of conspiring to act as&nbsp;an agent of a foreign government without notifying the attorney general, which carried a maximum penalty of five years in prison.&nbsp;

He has also been charged with&nbsp;one count of acting as an agent of a foreign government and one count of&nbsp;making false statements, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-10-former-and-current-soldiers-charged-with-spying-for-china-663306">Also read |&nbsp;Taiwan: 10 former and current soldiers charged with spying for China</a>

A federal district court will hear his case and if convicted, he will be handed a sentence, considering the US&nbsp;Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI is investigating the case.

The authorities informed that Tang previously had Chinese citizenship and was imprisoned in the country for&nbsp;his activities as a dissident opposing the one-party authoritarian political system of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A US resident has been charged and arrested for allegedly spying for China on pro-Democracy activists and dissidents whilst making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Justice (DoJ) said.

A US resident has been charged and arrested for allegedly spying for China on pro-Democracy activists and dissidents whilst making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Justice (DoJ) said. The accused, identified as 67-year-old Yuanjun Tang, is a resident of Queens, New York. He acted as a Chinese agent between 2019 and 2023 under the direction of China's Ministry of State Security (MSS), its principal intelligence agency. Among either things, MSS is also responsible for espionage and political security functions. Tang targeted US-based Chinese dissidents that Beijing views as potentially adverse. After collecting information on such individuals and groups, the data was delivered to the Politburo. Notably, he also helped MSS infiltrate a group chat on a messaging platform that was used by these dissidents. Tang used an email account where he received regular instructions from his Chinese overlords regarding the targets to be tailed. He also travelled abroad three times for face-to-face meetings with MSS intelligence officers. After arresting Tang, the law enforcement agencies recovered the numerous electronic devices and accounts that he used to communicate. "Tang also made materially false statements to the FBI. He falsely claimed that he was no longer able to access an email account through which he had communicated with his MSS handler through draft emails," DoJ added. Watch | Chinese spy balloon: Chinese companies hit with US trade restrictions × What has Tang been charged with? The NY resident has been charged with one count of conspiring to act as an agent of a foreign government without notifying the attorney general, which carried a maximum penalty of five years in prison. He has also been charged with one count of acting as an agent of a foreign government and one count of making false statements, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Also read | Taiwan: 10 former and current soldiers charged with spying for China A federal district court will hear his case and if convicted, he will be handed a sentence, considering the US Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI is investigating the case. The authorities informed that Tang previously had Chinese citizenship and was imprisoned in the country for his activities as a dissident opposing the one-party authoritarian political system of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). (With inputs from agencies)

New York resident arrested for spying for China, misleading FBI

Pakistan has allowed its Intelligence agency ISI to intercept phone calls and messages for national security and prevention of crime. The government has authorised the inter-services intelligence under Section 54 of telecommunication act of Pakistan's Minister of International Technology.

Pakistan government allows ISI to intercept calls & messages

Is China trying to militarise the Earth's lower orbit? Is Beijing rehearsing placing payload close to the Earth's surface? China's spacecraft Shenlong has dropped a mystery object kilometers above the Earth. #Gravitas brings you the details.

Gravitas: Is China practicing placing payload in space?

Russia said on Thursday it had detained a Frenchman suspected of gathering information about the Russian military, an incident French President Emmanuel Macron described as part of a campaign of disinformation by Moscow.

Russia arrests French scholar suspected of collecting intelligence

#Gravitas | China has accused the UK’s MI6 of recruiting a couple as spies. This is the latest in a series of tit-for-tat espionage allegations made between China and the UK in recent months.

Gravitas: Spy vs Spy war: Did UK's Mi6 Recruit a Chinese Couple as Spies?

China’s spy agency has accused its British counterpart MI6 of recruiting a Chinese couple employed by a “central national agency”, in a move that will ratchet up tensions with the UK over espionage.

China accuses MI6 of recruiting state spies

A German former soldier was sentenced to three and a half years in jail on Monday for sharing secret military information with Russia in the wake of the outbreak of war in Ukraine.

A court in Duesseldorf found the defendant, named only as Thomas H., guilty of passing on information on his own initiative from his post in the military procurement service.

The 54-year-old had admitted the crime during his trial, claiming he was hoping to obtain information in return that would help him get his family to safety in time in the event of the conflict escalating into a nuclear war.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/papua-new-guinea-confirms-over-2000-dead-in-deadliest-landslide-of-21st-century-725814">Papua New Guinea confirms over 2,000 dead in landslide devastation</a>

The espionage case is one of several uncovered in Germany since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.&nbsp;

Prosecutors had accused Thomas H. of photographing old training documents related to munitions systems and aircraft technology and dropping the material through the letterbox of the Russian consulate in Bonn.&nbsp;

The defendant "approached the Russian general consulate in Bonn and the Russian embassy in Berlin and offered his cooperation" in May 2023, prosecutors said.&nbsp;

"He passed on information he had obtained in the course of his professional activities for it to be passed on to a Russian intelligence service."

Thomas H. admitted at the opening of his trial in April that the accusations against him were "broadly" accurate.&nbsp;

"It was wrong. I stand by that," he said.

Thomas H. said his concern about a possible escalation in the war in Ukraine led him to reach out to the Russian side.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-airstrikes-in-rafah-camp-for-displaced-people-kill-35-palestinians-gaza-health-ministry-725705">Israeli airstrikes on Rafah camp kill 35 Palestinians: Gaza health ministry</a>

More precisely, he was worried about the possibility that deliveries of heavy weapons systems by Berlin to Ukraine would draw Germany into the conflict.

The former soldier's aim was to obtain information before a possible nuclear escalation in the conflict in order to bring his family to safety in time, he said.

The apocalyptic concern was the reason he landed on the "stupid idea" to reach out to Russian authorities.

A German former soldier was sentenced to three and a half years in jail on Monday for sharing secret military information with Russia in the wake of the outbreak of war in Ukraine.

A German former soldier was sentenced to three and a half years in jail on Monday for sharing secret military information with Russia in the wake of the outbreak of war in Ukraine. A court in Duesseldorf found the defendant, named only as Thomas H., guilty of passing on information on his own initiative from his post in the military procurement service. The 54-year-old had admitted the crime during his trial, claiming he was hoping to obtain information in return that would help him get his family to safety in time in the event of the conflict escalating into a nuclear war. Also read: Papua New Guinea confirms over 2,000 dead in landslide devastation The espionage case is one of several uncovered in Germany since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Prosecutors had accused Thomas H. of photographing old training documents related to munitions systems and aircraft technology and dropping the material through the letterbox of the Russian consulate in Bonn. The defendant "approached the Russian general consulate in Bonn and the Russian embassy in Berlin and offered his cooperation" in May 2023, prosecutors said. "He passed on information he had obtained in the course of his professional activities for it to be passed on to a Russian intelligence service." Thomas H. admitted at the opening of his trial in April that the accusations against him were "broadly" accurate. "It was wrong. I stand by that," he said. Thomas H. said his concern about a possible escalation in the war in Ukraine led him to reach out to the Russian side. Also read: Israeli airstrikes on Rafah camp kill 35 Palestinians: Gaza health ministry More precisely, he was worried about the possibility that deliveries of heavy weapons systems by Berlin to Ukraine would draw Germany into the conflict. The former soldier's aim was to obtain information before a possible nuclear escalation in the conflict in order to bring his family to safety in time, he said. The apocalyptic concern was the reason he landed on the "stupid idea" to reach out to Russian authorities.

German ex-soldier found guilty of spying for Russia

Matthew Trickett, 37, who was allegedly charged with spying for China died under 'unexplained' circumstances, and a police investigation is ongoing. Watch to know more.

UK police probing death of the man accused of spying for China

UK man accused of spying for China found dead

Earlier this month, a man was charged with assisting Hong Kong's foreign intelligence service in the UK. Matthew Trickett, a Home Office immigration officer, appeared in court charged under the National Security Act. However, he was found dead by a member of the public in a park in Maidenhead, Berkshire few days back.

UK police investigate unexplained death of man charged with spying for China

A man accused of helping Hong Kong authorities gather intelligence in the UK has died under unexplained circumstances, British police reported on Tuesday (May 21.)

37-year-old Matthew Trickett was among three men charged earlier this month with agreeing to engage in collecting information, surveillance and acts of deception that were likely&nbsp;assist the Hong Kong intelligence service from late 2023 to May 2 this year.&nbsp;

The prosecutors further alleged that the accused forced entry into a UK residential address on May 1.

All three men had been bailed and were due to appear at London’s Central Criminal Court for a hearing on Friday (May 24).

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As per the Thames Valley police, Trickett was found dead in a park in Maidenhead, west of London, on Sunday (May 19). An investigation is underway into his death, which is being treated as unexplained.

According to British media reports, Trickett was formerly a Royal Marine who worked as a Home Office immigration enforcement officer. He was reportedly the director of a security consultancy too.

Trickett, along with 38-year-old Chi Leung (Peter) Wai, and 63-year-old Chung Biu Yuen were detained. The men appeared at a brief court hearing to confirm their identities on May 13.

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Hong Kong authorities have confirmed that Yuen was the office manager of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London.

Trickett’s lawyer, Julian Hayes, expressed his shock at Tuesday’s news and stated that he was supporting Trickett’s family.&nbsp;

He declined to comment further due to the ongoing investigations. As of late Tuesday, a police cordon remained in place at Grenfell Park in Maidenhead, with several officers stationed near a black forensics tent close to a children’s playground.

However, Chinese authorities in both the UK and Hong Kong have condemned the charges, saying they were the latest in a series of groundless accusations that the UK government has leveled against China.

Hong Kong’s government demanded that the UK provide full details on the allegations.

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The spying charges came amid tensions between UK and China. UK have been vocal in warning about security threats from Beijing, and recently accused China of being behind a string of cyberespionage operations targeting politicians and Britain’s election watchdog.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said Britain is facing an increasingly dangerous future because of threats from an “axis of authoritarian states,” including Russia, China, Iran and North Korea.

In a separate ongoing court case, two men, including a parliamentary researcher, were recently charged with espionage for China.&nbsp;

Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry are accused of violating the Official Secrets Act by supplying information or documents that could be useful to an enemy—China—and "prejudicial to the safety or interests" of the UK between late 2021 and February 2023.

(With inputs from agencies)

A man accused of helping Hong Kong authorities gather intelligence in the UK has died under unexplained circumstances, British police reported on Tuesday (May 21.

A man accused of helping Hong Kong authorities gather intelligence in the UK has died under unexplained circumstances, British police reported on Tuesday (May 21.) 37-year-old Matthew Trickett was among three men charged earlier this month with agreeing to engage in collecting information, surveillance and acts of deception that were likely assist the Hong Kong intelligence service from late 2023 to May 2 this year. The prosecutors further alleged that the accused forced entry into a UK residential address on May 1. All three men had been bailed and were due to appear at London’s Central Criminal Court for a hearing on Friday (May 24). Also read: Tornado leaves multiple dead and dozens injured in Iowa, homes in ruins As per the Thames Valley police, Trickett was found dead in a park in Maidenhead, west of London, on Sunday (May 19). An investigation is underway into his death, which is being treated as unexplained. According to British media reports, Trickett was formerly a Royal Marine who worked as a Home Office immigration enforcement officer. He was reportedly the director of a security consultancy too. Trickett, along with 38-year-old Chi Leung (Peter) Wai, and 63-year-old Chung Biu Yuen were detained. The men appeared at a brief court hearing to confirm their identities on May 13. Also read: Key takeaways from primary races in Idaho, Kentucky, Oregon and California Hong Kong authorities have confirmed that Yuen was the office manager of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London. Trickett’s lawyer, Julian Hayes, expressed his shock at Tuesday’s news and stated that he was supporting Trickett’s family. He declined to comment further due to the ongoing investigations. As of late Tuesday, a police cordon remained in place at Grenfell Park in Maidenhead, with several officers stationed near a black forensics tent close to a children’s playground. However, Chinese authorities in both the UK and Hong Kong have condemned the charges, saying they were the latest in a series of groundless accusations that the UK government has leveled against China. Hong Kong’s government demanded that the UK provide full details on the allegations. Also read: Norway recognises Palestine statehood, Ireland to make move next The spying charges came amid tensions between UK and China. UK have been vocal in warning about security threats from Beijing, and recently accused China of being behind a string of cyberespionage operations targeting politicians and Britain’s election watchdog. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said Britain is facing an increasingly dangerous future because of threats from an “axis of authoritarian states,” including Russia, China, Iran and North Korea. In a separate ongoing court case, two men, including a parliamentary researcher, were recently charged with espionage for China. Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry are accused of violating the Official Secrets Act by supplying information or documents that could be useful to an enemy—China—and "prejudicial to the safety or interests" of the UK between late 2021 and February 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

UK man accused of spying for Hong Kong dies under ‘unexplained circumstances’

China's representative in the United Kingdom slammed the arrest of three individuals on allegations of spying for the Hong Kong intelligence service. Watch in for more details!

China blasts UK over Hong Kong 'spies' arrest

Tensions are simmering between Beijing and Washington. The U.S. imposed restrictions on some Chinese companies. Approx 37 Chinese entities are added to a trade restriction list. Some are restricted over allegedly supporting the spy balloon that flew over the United States last year.

Chinese spy balloon: Chinese companies hit with US trade restrictions

#Gravitas | Europe is grappling with a wave of spy threats from China. In Germany, four alleged Chinese spies were arrested. In UK, two were charged for espionage.

China's Espionage Push in Europe | Spy suspects arrested in Germany, UK

According to Philippine military intelligence reports, China is trying to approach Filipino military officials for espionage and to support its territorial claims in the South China Sea. An advertisment posted on Facebook with suspected Chinese roots has raised national security concerns in the Philippines.

Gravitas | Is China recruiting "sleeper cell" military members in Philippines?

The Philippines has accused China of attempting to recruit its Military Officers to conduct espionage activities in its exclusive economic zone sparking controversy. China has strongly denied all the allegations.

China recruiting sleeper cells in Philippines?

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