Russian saboteurs hired third operative for UK attacks

Russian intelligence services hired a third operative to carry out sabotage and reconnaissance missions in the United Kingdom, according to a report by The Times published on August 15, 2024. This individual, whose identity remains unknown, is believed to have been involved in spraying anti-Muslim graffiti in London as part of a broader disinformation campaign. The operation involved at least two other individuals, identified as Dmitry Streltsov and Dmitry Makarov, who were arrested in Poland in February 2024 on suspicion of carrying out arson attacks on behalf of Russia. Streltsov and Makarov were allegedly tasked with setting fire to a warehouse in the Willesden area of London, which housed IKEA products, and a business park in Birmingham. The investigation into these activities has been led by the Metropolitan Police, with support from the National Crime Agency. The broader context of these alleged Russian operations includes attempts to destabilize Western nations and sow discord through various means, including cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns.