UK counter-terrorism police arrest US Army member, 41, over suspected espionage for Russia

The arrest

Counter Terrorism Policing said a 41-year-old member of the US Army was arrested near Gloucester, in south-west England, on Tuesday, 10 November. The arrest was made on suspicion of offences under sections 1 and 3 of the National Security Act 2023. Police said the allegations concern Russia. The man is being held in custody at a London police station while the inquiry continues. Initial reports published that evening said the story was breaking and would be updated as more details emerged.

The investigation

Officers are searching two locations in Gloucestershire as part of the operation. The inquiry is being carried out closely with US authorities, the US military and the FBI. He has been arrested on suspicion, and no charge has been reported. The case is not linked to any other investigation currently being run by the counter-terrorism unit.

Official reaction

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, from Counter Terrorism Policing, called the arrest "significant". FBI director Kash Patel issued a statement that focused on the espionage allegations, saying:

“This important arrest involves allegations of espionage, which is of the utmost concern to the United States and our allies.”

The statement places the arrest within the concern of the United States and its allies, and it is one of the few official remarks published so far on the substance of the case.

What is still unknown

The statements released so far do not describe what the alleged activity involved or when it is alleged to have taken place. Searches at both Gloucestershire sites were still under way when the reports were published. Further updates from police are expected as the investigation develops.