A 59-year-old man, born in Georgia and permanently residing in Alexandroupoli, was arrested yesterday on espionage charges following a joint operation by the National Intelligence Service (EYP) and the Hellenic Police (ELAS).

According to the investigation and his own confession, the man was photographing and filming military sites and equipment, acting on behalf of another individual, to whom he sent the material via an encrypted application. He claimed he was working for a Russian intelligence agency.

The case is considered extremely serious, triggering a red alert within national intelligence and security services.

Preliminary reports indicate the suspect was caught in the act, photographing the transport of NATO equipment. During questioning, he stated that he had been approached and recruited by a person involved in transnational organized crime (drug trafficking, arms dealing, assassinations), who enlisted him for Russian intelligence services.

He was instructed to send photos, videos, and information on military assets, which he did via a digital platform. Although he was offered money for his actions, he allegedly replied: “I’m doing it for Mother Russia. I’m doing it for my homeland.”

Authorities are currently examining his phones and communications.

It is worth noting that since February 2022, Alexandroupoli has been a hub for the transfer of military equipment, much of which is ultimately sent to Ukraine.