Two Italian entrepreneurs, aged 34 and 60, are under investigation for allegedly working with Russian intelligence services to provide sensitive information, such as mapping video surveillance systems in Milan and Rome. The investigation, conducted by Milan Ros in collaboration with Carabinieri Antifalsification Monetary Command, began in April 2023 and resulted in searches at the suspects’ homes. The entrepreneurs are accused of “bribery of a citizen by a foreigner” for terrorism and subversion purposes.
It is reported that the men acted based on “political sympathies” and ideological inclinations in support of the Russian cause since the war in Ukraine. They allegedly received single payments of a few thousand euros in cryptocurrencies for their actions, which included capturing images of streets, squares, barracks, and military sites in Milan, Rome, and Aviano.
In a separate espionage case, Navy Frigate Captain Walter Biot was sentenced to 29 years and 2 months for selling secret information to a Russian embassy official. These cases are part of a larger pattern of Russian espionage activities in Italy, including influencing opinions and stealing sensitive information from the Italian state.
The investigation into the two Italian entrepreneurs highlights the ongoing threat of foreign espionage and the need for heightened vigilance in protecting sensitive information. Law enforcement agencies and intelligence services are continuing to collaborate to uncover and prevent such activities to ensure the safety and security of the country.
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