Turkish authorities have captured eight people suspected of providing information to the Israeli spy agency, in the latest in a series of such arrests in Turkey. Watch in for more details!

Turkey captures 8 suspects on suspicion of spying for Israel

The FBI is on the hunt for an alleged Iranian assassin identified as Majid Dastjani Farahani. The Iranian spy is accused of plotting to assassinate American officials including the former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

FBI hunting for Iranian spy who allegedly plotted Mike Pompeo's assassination

Have hostile spies blown apart Western secrets through Australia? The country's intel chief, Mike Burgess, has revealed a foreign espionage network. He says that a former politician "sold out" the country to a foreign spy network. Watch this video to find out more.

Gravitas | Western secrets at risk in Australia? Intel Chief reveals foreign spy network

China has expanded the scope of its state secrets law to include 'work secrets'. Is this a sign of Xi Jinping’s paranoia? What does the move mean for the people on the ground? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas | Spy-state China clamps down on 'work secrets'

Russia's FSB security services said on Tuesday it had arrested a woman with dual U.S.-Russian nationality who was suspected of treason for raising funds for the Ukrainian army.

American woman arrested for treason in Russia

Former US ambassador to Bolivia Victor Emanuel Rocha has pleaded not guilty to allegations of spying for Cuba for four decades in a federal courtroom. In Miami, Florida Rocha waved his right to attend a trial and according to a US attorney, Rocha repeatedly referred to the United States as the enemy.

US ex‑ambassador Rocha charged with spying for Cuba pleads not guilty

<p>Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) announced the arrest of a US-Russian woman in Yekaterinburg on suspicion of treason and raising funds for the Ukrainian Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident occurred at a time of ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as complexities in US-Russia relations.</p>

<p>The FSB arrested&nbsp;the 33-year-old woman, a dual citizen residing in Los Angeles, for her alleged involvement in illegal activities, AFP news agency reported citing the intelligence agency. The woman's identity remains undisclosed.</p>

<p><strong>What are the allegations?</strong></p>

<p>According to the FSB statement, the woman was actively gathering funds aimed at purchasing tactical medical items, equipment, weapons, and ammunition for the Ukrainian armed forces.</p>

<p>This action, purportedly conducted while she was in the United States, is deemed as working against Russia's national security interests.</p>

<p>Media outlets shared a video released by the FSB, showing officers escorting the woman, who was wearing a white coat and a hat covering her eyes, in handcuffs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-gifts-russian-made-car-to-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-violates-un-sanction-691948">Also read |&nbsp;Putin gifts Russian-made car to North Korea's Kim Jong Un, violating UN sanctions</a></p>

<p>In Russia, treason carries severe penalties, with a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison.</p>

<p>The arrest of the US-Russian woman exemplifies the stringent stance Russia maintains regarding activities perceived as detrimental to its security interests.</p>

<p>This incident adds to the existing tensions between Russia and the United States. It also highlights the challenges faced by individuals with dual citizenship amid strained diplomatic relations between the countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russians taking advantage of delays in aid to Ukraine says Zelensky</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russians-taking-advantage-of-delays-in-aid-to-ukraine-says-zelensky-691924/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The arrest occurred even as several US citizens are already detained in Russia on various charges.</p>

<p>The case of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter held on espionage charges, remains unresolved, prompting discussions of potential prisoner exchanges between the two nations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) announced the arrest of a US-Russian woman in Yekaterinburg on suspicion of treason and raising funds for the Ukrainian Army.

Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) announced the arrest of a US-Russian woman in Yekaterinburg on suspicion of treason and raising funds for the Ukrainian Army. The incident occurred at a time of ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as complexities in US-Russia relations. The FSB arrested the 33-year-old woman, a dual citizen residing in Los Angeles, for her alleged involvement in illegal activities, AFP news agency reported citing the intelligence agency. The woman's identity remains undisclosed. What are the allegations? According to the FSB statement, the woman was actively gathering funds aimed at purchasing tactical medical items, equipment, weapons, and ammunition for the Ukrainian armed forces. This action, purportedly conducted while she was in the United States, is deemed as working against Russia's national security interests. Media outlets shared a video released by the FSB, showing officers escorting the woman, who was wearing a white coat and a hat covering her eyes, in handcuffs. Also read | Putin gifts Russian-made car to North Korea's Kim Jong Un, violating UN sanctions In Russia, treason carries severe penalties, with a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison. The arrest of the US-Russian woman exemplifies the stringent stance Russia maintains regarding activities perceived as detrimental to its security interests. This incident adds to the existing tensions between Russia and the United States. It also highlights the challenges faced by individuals with dual citizenship amid strained diplomatic relations between the countries. Also watch | Russians taking advantage of delays in aid to Ukraine says Zelensky The arrest occurred even as several US citizens are already detained in Russia on various charges. The case of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter held on espionage charges, remains unresolved, prompting discussions of potential prisoner exchanges between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia's FSB arrests US-Russian woman for alleged treason, funding Ukrainian Army

China is increasing its surveillance of Tibetans. According to a new report, Chinese authorities are forcing Tibetans to down an anti-fraud app which experts warn could be a tool for surveillance. Concerns have been flagged over the app’s ability to track movements and access phone data. Activists and researchers warn type of surveillance is in line with measures taken by the Chinese authorities in Xinjiang.

Gravitas | China silently spies on Tibetans | Beijing's new weapon of mass surveillance

A refugee from Afghanistan who lied to gain asylum in Britain and claimed he worked for MI6 and met the King has rejected allegations he is a Russian spy.

Alleged Russian spy worked for UK's spy agencies like MI6

Have you heard about the Behshad? The Iran-flagged ship is accused of spying for Tehran. On paper, the Behshad is a commercial cargo ship, but this ship has mostly remained stationary, and guarded by Iran's Navy in the Red Sea since 2021. What's happening aboard the Behshad?

Gravitas | Behshad: Iran's mysterious 'spy ship' in the Red Sea

<p>In a major development, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP ATS) has arrested an employee posted at the Indian Embassy in Moscow, Russia, accused of being an agent of&nbsp;&nbsp; Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The accused, identified as&nbsp;Satyendra Siwal, a native of the northern Indian city of Hapur in Uttar Pradesh&nbsp;had&nbsp;been posted at the Embassy since 2021 and worked as an MTS (multi-tasking&nbsp;staff) at the Ministry of External Affairs.</p>

<p>According to reports, he was arrested after ATS received intelligence from confidential sources that an ISI spy was operating from the Embassy.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Acting on the information, UP ATS questioned Siwal, who initially gave unsatisfactory answers. However, later he confessed to spying and was arrested in Meerut.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-paks-isi-spooked-after-mystery-killings-of-terrorists-641069"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Pak's ISI spooked after mystery killings of terrorists</strong></a></p>

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<p>Siwal was allegedly extracting confidential documents by exploiting his position within the Indian Embassy.&nbsp;Motivated by greed for money, he extracted critical information about the Indian Army and its day-to-day functioning.</p>

<p>Additionally, he also passed&nbsp;critical information concerning the strategic activities of the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of External Affairs, and Indian military establishments to ISI handlers.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous incidents</strong></h2>

<p>In October last year, a Pakistani man who had been granted Indian citizenship in 2005 was caught by the&nbsp;ATS for&nbsp;allegedly spying on Indian defence personnel via WhatsApp.</p>

<p>The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Labhshankar Maheshwari, hailed from Tarapur town in Anand district in Gujarat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The snooping was done to allegedly help Pakistani authorities. The plot involved sending spyware to the WhatsApp of Indian defence personnel in the garb of a fake 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, which sought to encourage every Indian household to sport the national flag.</p>

<p>The accused had&nbsp;been booked under Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita Act&nbsp;section 123 (concealing with intent to facilitate a design to wage war against the government) and 121-A (conspiracy to wage war against the government) and under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>ISI’s nefarious plans</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the ISI has been notorious for attempting to infiltrate the Indian bureaucratic setups with its spies. When not busy planting moles, ISI lays the groundwork to stoke the separatism cause in India and abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, several intel reports found that ISI had been providing funds to intensify&nbsp;Khalistani activities in Canada.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistans-inter-services-intelligence-isi-funding-khalistan-activities-in-canada-report-637939"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence funding Khalistan activities in Canada: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The funding, according to the report, has been utilised to take people to the protest site, make posters and banners, and also to instigate youth against India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major development, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP ATS) has arrested an employee posted at the Indian Embassy in Moscow, Russia, accused of being an agent of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

In a major development, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UP ATS) has arrested an employee posted at the Indian Embassy in Moscow, Russia, accused of being an agent of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The accused, identified as Satyendra Siwal, a native of the northern Indian city of Hapur in Uttar Pradesh had been posted at the Embassy since 2021 and worked as an MTS (multi-tasking staff) at the Ministry of External Affairs. According to reports, he was arrested after ATS received intelligence from confidential sources that an ISI spy was operating from the Embassy. Acting on the information, UP ATS questioned Siwal, who initially gave unsatisfactory answers. However, later he confessed to spying and was arrested in Meerut. Watch | Gravitas: Pak's ISI spooked after mystery killings of terrorists × Siwal was allegedly extracting confidential documents by exploiting his position within the Indian Embassy. Motivated by greed for money, he extracted critical information about the Indian Army and its day-to-day functioning. Additionally, he also passed critical information concerning the strategic activities of the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of External Affairs, and Indian military establishments to ISI handlers. Previous incidents In October last year, a Pakistani man who had been granted Indian citizenship in 2005 was caught by the ATS for allegedly spying on Indian defence personnel via WhatsApp. The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Labhshankar Maheshwari, hailed from Tarapur town in Anand district in Gujarat. The snooping was done to allegedly help Pakistani authorities. The plot involved sending spyware to the WhatsApp of Indian defence personnel in the garb of a fake 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, which sought to encourage every Indian household to sport the national flag. The accused had been booked under Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita Act section 123 (concealing with intent to facilitate a design to wage war against the government) and 121-A (conspiracy to wage war against the government) and under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act. ISI’s nefarious plans Notably, the ISI has been notorious for attempting to infiltrate the Indian bureaucratic setups with its spies. When not busy planting moles, ISI lays the groundwork to stoke the separatism cause in India and abroad. Last year, several intel reports found that ISI had been providing funds to intensify Khalistani activities in Canada. Also read | Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence funding Khalistan activities in Canada: Report The funding, according to the report, has been utilised to take people to the protest site, make posters and banners, and also to instigate youth against India. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Embassy employee in Moscow arrested for spying, links to Pakistan’s ISI

Employee at Indian Embassy in Moscow arrested from Meerut for spying for Pakistan’s ISI

Australian writer Yang Jun has been given a suspended death sentence for espionage in China, according to the Australian government. It is one of the harshest sentences Beijing is known to have handed down for spying charges in recent years and casts a new shadow over relations between China and Australia.

China hands Australian writer Yang Jun a suspended death penalty

A pigeon suspected of being a Chinese spy was captured by the Indian police. It was caught carrying a mysterious message.

Gravitas | Pigeon suspected to be Chinese spy set free

<p>A pigeon, once suspected to be a Chinese spy, has finally been set free after spending eight months under the watchful eyes of Mumbai's veterinary authorities.</p>

<p>The Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals, located in the vibrant Parel area, sought and received permission from the police to release the bird on Tuesday (Jan 30), marking the end of its unexpected stint in custody.</p>

<p>The avian intrigue began in May last year when the RCF (Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers) police apprehended the pigeon at Pir Pau Jetty in suburban Chembur.</p>

<p>The mysterious bird, adorned with copper and aluminum rings on its legs, bore messages in a script similar to Chinese characters beneath its wings. This sparked espionage suspicions.</p>

<p>Although a case was initially registered by the RCF police, subsequent investigations led to a surprising turn of events.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-did-kalpana-soren-not-become-cm-due-to-party-rebellion-685609">Jharkhand: Did Kalpana Soren not become CM due to party rebellion?</a></p>

<p>The espionage charges were eventually dropped as it was discovered that the pigeon had a more innocent backstory.</p>

<p>As the police delved into the feathered spy saga, it was revealed that the pigeon was a racer from Taiwan, participating in open-water racing events.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2024-what-to-expect-for-indias-railway-sector-685601">Budget 2024: What to expect for India’s railway sector?</a></strong></p>

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<p>During one such competition, the adventurous bird soared beyond borders and landed unexpectedly on Indian soil.</p>

<p>With the espionage allegations debunked and the bird&nbsp;declared in good health, the Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals released the globe-trotting pigeon after receiving the police's "no objection."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A pigeon, once suspected to be a Chinese spy, has finally been set free after spending eight months under the watchful eyes of Mumbai's veterinary authorities. The Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals, located in the vibrant Parel area, sought and received permission from the police to release the bird on Tuesday (Jan 30), marking the end of its unexpected stint in custody.

A pigeon, once suspected to be a Chinese spy, has finally been set free after spending eight months under the watchful eyes of Mumbai's veterinary authorities. The Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals, located in the vibrant Parel area, sought and received permission from the police to release the bird on Tuesday (Jan 30), marking the end of its unexpected stint in custody. The avian intrigue began in May last year when the RCF (Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers) police apprehended the pigeon at Pir Pau Jetty in suburban Chembur. The mysterious bird, adorned with copper and aluminum rings on its legs, bore messages in a script similar to Chinese characters beneath its wings. This sparked espionage suspicions. Although a case was initially registered by the RCF police, subsequent investigations led to a surprising turn of events. Also Read | Jharkhand: Did Kalpana Soren not become CM due to party rebellion? The espionage charges were eventually dropped as it was discovered that the pigeon had a more innocent backstory. As the police delved into the feathered spy saga, it was revealed that the pigeon was a racer from Taiwan, participating in open-water racing events. Watch | Budget 2024: What to expect for India’s railway sector? × During one such competition, the adventurous bird soared beyond borders and landed unexpectedly on Indian soil. With the espionage allegations debunked and the bird declared in good health, the Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals released the globe-trotting pigeon after receiving the police's "no objection." (With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai spy pigeon released after eight months in custody. Here's why it was held

Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, on Tuesday (Jan 30) sacked the country’s deputy intelligence director amid an investigation into alleged illegal espionage during his predecessor Jair Bolsonaro’s presidency.

Brazil intelligence agency’s second-in-command fired in Bolsonaro illegal spying probe

Reports suggest that iPhone's in-app ads and push notifications have been used for unethical means to collect users' data without their knowledge. Watch in this report for more details.

Ads, push notifications in iPhone are used by third parties to spy on users: Reports

The US Central Intelligence Agency has released a Russian-language video to try to persuade Russian intelligence employees to switch sides and work as double agents for Washington.

CIA tries to recruit double agents in Russia with new video

In a developing maritime situation, the Indian Navy is closely monitoring the movement of the Chinese ocean research vessel XIANG YANG HONG 03, which is reported to be heading towards Male, the capital of the Maldives. The development comes amid the recent India-Maldives tensions. Watch to know more!

Indian Navy keeps watch as Chinese vessel heads towards Maldives

America has a unique problem. It is struggling to recruit spies in China. The CIA is trying hard to rebuild its espionage capabilities in Beijing but it hasn't been that successful. Why is that happening?

Gravitas: Spy wars: US vs China

According to reports, China is stealing artificial intelligence technology in order to launch large cyberattacks against the United States and other countries. According to reports, Chinese spy agency eyes use of AI. China's MSS seeks going toe-to-toe with CIA. watch to get more insights!

China's spy agency MSS seeks going toe-to-toe with CIA

It is believed that China is stealing artificial intelligence technology in order to launch large cyberattacks against the United States and other countries. According to reports, Chinese spy agency eyes use of AI. China's MSS seeks going toe-to-toe with CIA. watch to get more insights!

AI Program to allow Chinese spies to pinpoint targets, says reports

In a recent development, a Qatar court has decided to reduce the sentences handed to eight Indian nationals who were convicted last month in connection with an alleged espionage case.

Dahra Global Case: Qatar reduces sentences of eight Indian nationals on death row

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<p>Jeff Bezos-owned Amazon is the subject of a lawsuit wherein a West Virginian man was able to spy on an underage Brazilian girl using a hidden camera, bought from the e-commerce platform. The suit, brought by the girl,&nbsp;alleges that Amazon failed to remove the controversial product from its catalogue despite inspecting it three times and knowing the harm it could cause.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The girl is suing the e-commerce giant for unspecified damages and is looking for a jury trial. Amazon attempted to get the case dismissed previously but a judge said Amazon cannot act surprised when a buyer used the product for its advertised purpose.</p>

<p>The said device resembles a clothes hook and was purchased from Amazon by the accused, identified as Darrel Wells. He spied on a foreign exchange student who was living in his home. He has been charged with child porn and 10 counts of criminal invasion of privacy.</p>

<p>According to a report in <em>Fox News</em>, the seller on the platform sold the camera s part of the Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program. The company policy states that products sold in the FBA program go through a thorough inspection process under which it is checked if the product meets restrictions, is in good shape and meets the safety standards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the exact clothes hook hidden camera is no longer available on Amazon, several similar products are still available for purchase on the Amazon marketplace.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-acquires-roomba-vacuum-makers-for-17-billion-504121">W</a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-you-shouldnt-put-alexa-in-your-bedroom-549051"><strong>ATCH |&nbsp;Why you shouldn't put Alexa in your bedroom</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Previous instances</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, this is not the first instance when Amazon has come under scrutiny for selling hidden cameras that have been used for ulterior purposes. In June, earlier this year, the company agreed to a $5.8 million settlement with the US Federal Trade Commission after a former employee of its Ring doorbell camera unit was caught spying for months on female customers in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The FTC in its complaint stated the employee viewed videos made by at least 81 female customers and Ring employees using Ring products.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Undetected by Ring, the employee continued spying for months," the FTC said, adding, "Ring's disregard for privacy and security exposed consumers to spying and harassment."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-settles-ring-camera-spying-scandal-to-pay-this-amount-as-settlement-599210"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Amazon settles Ring camera spying scandal, to pay this amount as settlement</strong></a></p>

<p>Apart from the $5.8 million settlement, Amazon also agreed to pay $25 million after Alexa (virtual assistant technology) was found violating the privacy rights of children. FTC found that Alexa failed to delete recordings at the request of parents and kept them longer than necessary.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Jeff Bezos-owned Amazon is the subject of a lawsuit wherein a West Virginian man was able to spy on an underage Brazilian girl using a hidden camera, bought from the e-commerce platform.

Jeff Bezos-owned Amazon is the subject of a lawsuit wherein a West Virginian man was able to spy on an underage Brazilian girl using a hidden camera, bought from the e-commerce platform. The suit, brought by the girl, alleges that Amazon failed to remove the controversial product from its catalogue despite inspecting it three times and knowing the harm it could cause. The girl is suing the e-commerce giant for unspecified damages and is looking for a jury trial. Amazon attempted to get the case dismissed previously but a judge said Amazon cannot act surprised when a buyer used the product for its advertised purpose. The said device resembles a clothes hook and was purchased from Amazon by the accused, identified as Darrel Wells. He spied on a foreign exchange student who was living in his home. He has been charged with child porn and 10 counts of criminal invasion of privacy. According to a report in Fox News, the seller on the platform sold the camera s part of the Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program. The company policy states that products sold in the FBA program go through a thorough inspection process under which it is checked if the product meets restrictions, is in good shape and meets the safety standards. While the exact clothes hook hidden camera is no longer available on Amazon, several similar products are still available for purchase on the Amazon marketplace. WATCH | Why you shouldn't put Alexa in your bedroom Previous instances Notably, this is not the first instance when Amazon has come under scrutiny for selling hidden cameras that have been used for ulterior purposes. In June, earlier this year, the company agreed to a $5.8 million settlement with the US Federal Trade Commission after a former employee of its Ring doorbell camera unit was caught spying for months on female customers in 2017. The FTC in its complaint stated the employee viewed videos made by at least 81 female customers and Ring employees using Ring products. "Undetected by Ring, the employee continued spying for months," the FTC said, adding, "Ring's disregard for privacy and security exposed consumers to spying and harassment." Also read | Amazon settles Ring camera spying scandal, to pay this amount as settlement Apart from the $5.8 million settlement, Amazon also agreed to pay $25 million after Alexa (virtual assistant technology) was found violating the privacy rights of children. FTC found that Alexa failed to delete recordings at the request of parents and kept them longer than necessary. (With inputs from agencies)

Amazon sued for selling hidden camera used to spy on underage girl

Reports have now emerged that an agent of Israel's intelligence agency known as Mossad has been executed in Iran on Saturday. The agent was accused of working with foreign intelligence services and was charged with releasing classified information.

Iran executes Mossad spy who was charged with releasing classified information

<p>North Korea issued a stern warning on Saturday (Dec 2) declaring that any interference by US in its satellite operations would be tantamount to a declaration of war.</p>

<p>The warning by North Korea came after the country successfully launched its inaugural military spy satellite on November 21, sharing images of military installations in the US mainland, Japan, and Guam, to which Washington responded with sanctions. The regime in Pyongyang asserted that it would activate its war deterrence measures in response to any perceived threat against its strategic assets, reported Reuters.</p>

<p>According to state media KCNA, the North Korean defense ministry spokesperson in a statement said, "In case the U.S. tries to violate the legitimate territory of a sovereign state by weaponising the latest technologies illegally and unjustly, the DPRK will consider taking responsive action measures for self-defence to undermine or destroy the viability of the U.S. spy satellites."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zaporizhzhia-plants-power-cut-carried-risk-of-nuclear-accident-ukraine-665458">Zaporizhzhia plant's power cut carried risk of nuclear 'accident': Ukraine</a></p>

<p>A spokesperson from the US Space Command reportedly spoke of Washington's ability to deny adversaries' space power using various means.</p>

<p>In a subsequent statement on the matter, North Korea's foreign ministry announced its intent to take countermeasures against individuals and organisations from the US and its "vassal forces" involved in imposing and enforcing sanctions against North Korea.</p>

<p>The regime also argued that such sanctions violated international law.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-after-gaza-war-ends-israel-plans-to-hunt-down-hamas-leaders-globally-says-report-665467">What after Gaza war ends? Israel plans to hunt down Hamas leaders globally, says report</a></p>

<h2><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-mystery-illness-us-senators-push-for-urgent-china-travel-ban-665478">China mystery illness: US Senators push for urgent China travel ban</a></strong></h2>

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<p>North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons has been a major source of concern for the United States. Despite numerous sanctions, North Korea has continued its development of nuclear capabilities. The US has consistently opposed North Korea's nuclear programme, viewing it as a threat to regional and global security.</p>

<p>“The DPRK is unabashedly trying to advance its nuclear weapons delivery systems by testing ballistic missile technology in clear violation of this council’s resolutions,” US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told UNSC members earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un rebuffed US appeals for a resumption of diplomatic efforts. She criticised the US for its condemnation of North Korea's recent spy satellite launch and pledged to carry out additional launches in defiance of United Nations prohibitions.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


North Korea issued a stern warning on Saturday (Dec 2) declaring that any interference by US in its satellite operations would be tantamount to a declaration of war.

North Korea issued a stern warning on Saturday (Dec 2) declaring that any interference by US in its satellite operations would be tantamount to a declaration of war. The warning by North Korea came after the country successfully launched its inaugural military spy satellite on November 21, sharing images of military installations in the US mainland, Japan, and Guam, to which Washington responded with sanctions. The regime in Pyongyang asserted that it would activate its war deterrence measures in response to any perceived threat against its strategic assets, reported Reuters. According to state media KCNA, the North Korean defense ministry spokesperson in a statement said, "In case the U.S. tries to violate the legitimate territory of a sovereign state by weaponising the latest technologies illegally and unjustly, the DPRK will consider taking responsive action measures for self-defence to undermine or destroy the viability of the U.S. spy satellites." Also Read | Zaporizhzhia plant's power cut carried risk of nuclear 'accident': Ukraine A spokesperson from the US Space Command reportedly spoke of Washington's ability to deny adversaries' space power using various means. In a subsequent statement on the matter, North Korea's foreign ministry announced its intent to take countermeasures against individuals and organisations from the US and its "vassal forces" involved in imposing and enforcing sanctions against North Korea. The regime also argued that such sanctions violated international law. Also Read | What after Gaza war ends? Israel plans to hunt down Hamas leaders globally, says report Watch | China mystery illness: US Senators push for urgent China travel ban × North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons has been a major source of concern for the United States. Despite numerous sanctions, North Korea has continued its development of nuclear capabilities. The US has consistently opposed North Korea's nuclear programme, viewing it as a threat to regional and global security. “The DPRK is unabashedly trying to advance its nuclear weapons delivery systems by testing ballistic missile technology in clear violation of this council’s resolutions,” US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told UNSC members earlier. Meanwhile, Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un rebuffed US appeals for a resumption of diplomatic efforts. She criticised the US for its condemnation of North Korea's recent spy satellite launch and pledged to carry out additional launches in defiance of United Nations prohibitions. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea roars back at US, says satellite interference will be seen as declaration of war

<p>As many as 10 former and current Taiwanese military officers were indicted on spying charges for China on Monday (Nov 27), reported news agency AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Four officers were accused of handing over "multiple items of military secrets" to Beijing in lieu of money while three&nbsp;were accused of&nbsp;recruiting active-duty servicemen to collect military information to "develop a network for China", the Taiwan High Prosecutors' Office said in a statement.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the other two officers, both on active duty, partook in shooting a&nbsp;"psychological warfare" video for Beijing. In the video, they both could be heard saying:&nbsp;"I am willing to surrender to the People's Liberation Army".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prosecutors argued that pledging allegiances to an enemy state and its Communist party was an extremely vicious act.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last defendant stole military secrets from a safe at the military workplace and allegedly handed it over to the Beijing overlords.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All the defendants had been or are currently servicemen but they betrayed their country and the people just because of personal interests..to seriously jeopardise security," prosecutors argued and demanded the court impose a "harsher sentence to serve as a warning".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-prepares-for-the-chinese-worst-case-scenario-by-altering-its-defence-spending-strategy-571924"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Taiwan prepares for 'worst case scenario' with China by altering defence spending strategy</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Not the first instance</strong></h2>

<p>This is not the first instance when the Chinese moles have been identified in the Taiwanese military. Last month, a retired Taiwan Air Force colonel was jailed for 20 years on allegations of running a military spy ring for China.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Identified as one&nbsp;Liu Sheng-shu, the ex-serviceman was convicted of recruiting active-duty officers, in an attempt to transmit top-secret data to Beijing. Authorities confiscated over $500,000 from him, reported to be illicit earning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from&nbsp;Liu, five other officers, ranging from navy to air force were jailed for six to 20-years period.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-eyes-taiwan-reunification-china-bolsters-military-aggression-wion-635732"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;China eyes Taiwan 'reunification' | China bolsters military aggression</strong></a></p>

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<p>China considers Taiwan a part of its territory but the island nation and its people have never accepted Beijing's control.</p>

<p>However, after Beijing staged war games around the island, fired indiscriminate missiles and declared it a no-fly zone last year in an attempt to simulate how it would look to cut Taiwan off in case of a potential conflict, Taipei has taken evasive actions.</p>

<p>The authorities are working round the clock to fix the gaps, especially at home where Beijing has planted moles by the numbers. Since the two sides split in 1949 after the civil war, they have been spying on each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As many as 10 former and current Taiwanese military officers were indicted on spying charges for China on Monday (Nov 27), reported news agency AFP. Four officers were accused of handing over "multiple items of military secrets" to Beijing in lieu of money while three were accused of recruiting active-duty servicemen to collect military information to "develop a network for China", the Taiwan High Prosecutors' Office said in a statement.

As many as 10 former and current Taiwanese military officers were indicted on spying charges for China on Monday (Nov 27), reported news agency AFP. Four officers were accused of handing over "multiple items of military secrets" to Beijing in lieu of money while three were accused of recruiting active-duty servicemen to collect military information to "develop a network for China", the Taiwan High Prosecutors' Office said in a statement. Meanwhile, the other two officers, both on active duty, partook in shooting a "psychological warfare" video for Beijing. In the video, they both could be heard saying: "I am willing to surrender to the People's Liberation Army". The prosecutors argued that pledging allegiances to an enemy state and its Communist party was an extremely vicious act. The last defendant stole military secrets from a safe at the military workplace and allegedly handed it over to the Beijing overlords. "All the defendants had been or are currently servicemen but they betrayed their country and the people just because of personal interests..to seriously jeopardise security," prosecutors argued and demanded the court impose a "harsher sentence to serve as a warning". Also read | Taiwan prepares for 'worst case scenario' with China by altering defence spending strategy Not the first instance This is not the first instance when the Chinese moles have been identified in the Taiwanese military. Last month, a retired Taiwan Air Force colonel was jailed for 20 years on allegations of running a military spy ring for China. Identified as one Liu Sheng-shu, the ex-serviceman was convicted of recruiting active-duty officers, in an attempt to transmit top-secret data to Beijing. Authorities confiscated over $500,000 from him, reported to be illicit earning. Apart from Liu, five other officers, ranging from navy to air force were jailed for six to 20-years period. Watch | China eyes Taiwan 'reunification' | China bolsters military aggression × China considers Taiwan a part of its territory but the island nation and its people have never accepted Beijing's control. However, after Beijing staged war games around the island, fired indiscriminate missiles and declared it a no-fly zone last year in an attempt to simulate how it would look to cut Taiwan off in case of a potential conflict, Taipei has taken evasive actions. The authorities are working round the clock to fix the gaps, especially at home where Beijing has planted moles by the numbers. Since the two sides split in 1949 after the civil war, they have been spying on each other. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan: 10 former and current soldiers charged with spying for China

Israel arrested five Palestinians in a plot allegedly hatched in Iran to target and spy on senior Israeli politicians. Shin Bet the country's internal security agency stated the targets included Israel's far-right national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Shin Bet: Iranian officials in Jordan allegedly orchestrated the plot

<p>The United States is learnt to have expressed apprehensions over the upcoming visit of the Chinese ‘research ship’ Shi Yan 6, believed to be a spy vessel, to Colombo.</p>

<p>According to Sri Lankan news outlet Daily Mirror Online, US Under Secretary Victoria Nuland during her meeting with Foreign Minister Ali Sabry raised concerns about the upcoming visit of the Chinese vessel.</p>

<p>Sabry reportedly briefed Nuland that the ship is acting in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SPO) drafted by Colombo that is to be followed by foreign ships and aircraft in carrying out any activity in Sri Lankan territory.</p>

<p>The minister reportedly told her that Sri Lanka, a neutral country, had been even-handed in this approach for all the countries and could not exclude China from the process as a result.</p>

<p>It is unclear when the meeting took place, but the report mentioned that the officials met in the United States on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session.</p>

<p>The Chinese vessel will be docking at Colombo port in October.</p>

<h2><strong>Chinese vessel Shi Yan 6 to reach Sri Lanka on October 25</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>Chinese vessel for 'research purposes'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>According to a statement published by the Chinese state broadcaster CGTN, the ship would help “strengthen scientific research cooperation and exchanges with countries along the Maritime Silk Road and further realise the integration of science and education for Belt and Road Initiative”.</p>

<p>The so-called “scientific research vessel” has 60 crew members on board.</p>

<p>According to reports, researchers affiliated with Sri Lanka's National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), are set to commence a scientific expedition aboard the vessel Shi Yan 6.</p>

<p>Their primary objective is to carry out an extensive survey encompassing both the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the island nation and the region of the southern Indian Ocean.</p>

<h2><strong>India's concerns&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>China regularly sends its&nbsp;vessels to Sri Lanka for “research purposes”, but New Delhi believes that China is attempting to snoop on its defence installations.</p>

<p>Last year, it raised concerns over a Sri Lanka port call in Hambantota by Chinese research vessel Yuan Wang 5, which specialises in spacecraft tracking and which New Delhi described as a spy ship.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-recalls-ambassador-announces-withdrawal-of-troops-from-coup-hit-niger-639339">France recalls ambassador, announces withdrawal of troops from coup-hit Niger</a></p>

<p>Hambantota is seen as a “strategic” port in southern Sri Lanka and has been built by a Chinese company.</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-was-matteo-messina-denaro-61-year-old-sicilian-mafia-boss-dies-in-custody-639363">Who was Matteo Messina Denaro, 61-year-old Sicilian mafia boss who has died in custody?</a></p>

<p>Though India is yet to make an official comment on it, the Hindustan Times newspaper last month reported that Indian officials are engaging with Sri Lanka at the highest diplomatic levels.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The United States is learnt to have expressed apprehensions over the upcoming visit of the Chinese ‘research ship’ Shi Yan 6, believed to be a spy vessel, to Colombo.

The United States is learnt to have expressed apprehensions over the upcoming visit of the Chinese ‘research ship’ Shi Yan 6, believed to be a spy vessel, to Colombo. According to Sri Lankan news outlet Daily Mirror Online, US Under Secretary Victoria Nuland during her meeting with Foreign Minister Ali Sabry raised concerns about the upcoming visit of the Chinese vessel. Sabry reportedly briefed Nuland that the ship is acting in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SPO) drafted by Colombo that is to be followed by foreign ships and aircraft in carrying out any activity in Sri Lankan territory. The minister reportedly told her that Sri Lanka, a neutral country, had been even-handed in this approach for all the countries and could not exclude China from the process as a result. It is unclear when the meeting took place, but the report mentioned that the officials met in the United States on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session. The Chinese vessel will be docking at Colombo port in October. Chinese vessel Shi Yan 6 to reach Sri Lanka on October 25 Chinese vessel for 'research purposes' According to a statement published by the Chinese state broadcaster CGTN, the ship would help “strengthen scientific research cooperation and exchanges with countries along the Maritime Silk Road and further realise the integration of science and education for Belt and Road Initiative”. The so-called “scientific research vessel” has 60 crew members on board. According to reports, researchers affiliated with Sri Lanka's National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), are set to commence a scientific expedition aboard the vessel Shi Yan 6. Their primary objective is to carry out an extensive survey encompassing both the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the island nation and the region of the southern Indian Ocean. India's concerns China regularly sends its vessels to Sri Lanka for “research purposes”, but New Delhi believes that China is attempting to snoop on its defence installations. Last year, it raised concerns over a Sri Lanka port call in Hambantota by Chinese research vessel Yuan Wang 5, which specialises in spacecraft tracking and which New Delhi described as a spy ship. Also read | France recalls ambassador, announces withdrawal of troops from coup-hit Niger Hambantota is seen as a “strategic” port in southern Sri Lanka and has been built by a Chinese company. Also read | Who was Matteo Messina Denaro, 61-year-old Sicilian mafia boss who has died in custody? Though India is yet to make an official comment on it, the Hindustan Times newspaper last month reported that Indian officials are engaging with Sri Lanka at the highest diplomatic levels. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US echoes India’s security concerns over China’s Shi Yan 6’s port call to Sri Lanka: Report

<p>As Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasises rooting out foreign espionage threats that the country faces, the Chinese government and authorities in many parts of the country are encouraging and 'educating' people on how to catch spies, reported Bloomberg.</p>

<p>The efforts have also led universities to bring their students into focus in this apparent push to hunt foreign spies.</p>

<p>The Bloomberg report talked about a 'propaganda blitz' targeted at university students that was akin to a 'crash course' in catching spies.</p>

<p>Videos shown to students and faculty at government-run Tsinghua University reportedly urged them to be a “defence line” against foreign forces.</p>

<p>A 'national-security themed garden party' was thrown by the Beijing University of Technology, said the report.</p>

<p>What's more, the students at Beihang University were reportedly asked to play an interactive game called Who's the Spy. Beihang University is an aeronautics institute which is under US sanctions due to its links with the Chinese military.</p>

<p>The push to encourage people to catch spies around them is wider. Police in China's Henan Province have asked citizens to quiz 'suspicious' neighbours on popular culture in order to test their patriotism.</p>

<p>In the month of May this year, Xi Jinping chaired a National Security Council meeting. During the meeting, the importance of 'extreme-scenario thinking' was emphasised.</p>

<p>The use of this term in the context of national security is interesting as the term was previously used in the context of natural disaster preparedness. The push to encourage people to catch spies has followed the meeting.</p>

<p>This is not the first time Chinese people have been encouraged to 'tell on' others. Former Chinese leader Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution was a very violent period in China's history. During the period, the public was encouraged to report the slightest hint of a friend or a relative possibly being linked to those conspiring to topple the Communist Party.</p>

<p>Bloomberg report mentioned that China offers incentives for reporting on spies. For every genuine case of a spy being successfully reported, a citizen can get up to 500,000 yuan ($68,160).</p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

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As Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasises rooting out foreign espionage threats that the country faces, the Chinese government and authorities in many parts of the country are encouraging and 'educating' people on how to catch spies, reported Bloomberg.

As Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasises rooting out foreign espionage threats that the country faces, the Chinese government and authorities in many parts of the country are encouraging and 'educating' people on how to catch spies, reported Bloomberg. The efforts have also led universities to bring their students into focus in this apparent push to hunt foreign spies. The Bloomberg report talked about a 'propaganda blitz' targeted at university students that was akin to a 'crash course' in catching spies. Videos shown to students and faculty at government-run Tsinghua University reportedly urged them to be a “defence line” against foreign forces. A 'national-security themed garden party' was thrown by the Beijing University of Technology, said the report. What's more, the students at Beihang University were reportedly asked to play an interactive game called Who's the Spy. Beihang University is an aeronautics institute which is under US sanctions due to its links with the Chinese military. The push to encourage people to catch spies around them is wider. Police in China's Henan Province have asked citizens to quiz 'suspicious' neighbours on popular culture in order to test their patriotism. In the month of May this year, Xi Jinping chaired a National Security Council meeting. During the meeting, the importance of 'extreme-scenario thinking' was emphasised. The use of this term in the context of national security is interesting as the term was previously used in the context of natural disaster preparedness. The push to encourage people to catch spies has followed the meeting. This is not the first time Chinese people have been encouraged to 'tell on' others. Former Chinese leader Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution was a very violent period in China's history. During the period, the public was encouraged to report the slightest hint of a friend or a relative possibly being linked to those conspiring to topple the Communist Party. Bloomberg report mentioned that China offers incentives for reporting on spies. For every genuine case of a spy being successfully reported, a citizen can get up to 500,000 yuan ($68,160). You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Xi Jinping's focus on security is turning students into spy hunters: Report

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