Polish security services have arrested six foreign citizens on suspicion of spying for Russia, according to two government officials who spoke with the BBC. The group is suspected of installing secret cameras to film transportation infrastructure that delivers aid to Ukraine, as well as preparing sabotage plans.
The spy conflict between Russia and the West has been ongoing for decades but has intensified since the Ukraine war. Poland is a strong ally of Ukraine and has arrested several people on suspicion of spying for Russia since the invasion last February. The group is reported to have installed dozens of cameras beside railroad junctions and important transport routes in Podkarpackie province, which borders Ukraine. Some of these cameras were found close to a regional airport that has been converted into an international logistics hub that delivers military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
The arrested individuals are foreign citizens, and their identities have not yet been disclosed. Polish officials have not provided further details, but local Polish media outlet RMF FM has reported that the spy network was working for Russia. The group had installed cameras to monitor strategic transportation routes, and some of the cameras were found near a logistics hub that delivers aid to Ukraine.
The Ukrainian conflict has sparked a surge in espionage activity, with many nations accusing Russia of interfering in their internal affairs. The Russian government has consistently denied these accusations. Poland, which shares a border with Ukraine, has been particularly vigilant about spying and has arrested several individuals on suspicion of spying for Russia since the Ukraine invasion.
The spy conflict between Russia and the West is long-standing, with both sides engaged in a covert battle for information and influence. This latest incident is likely to further increase tensions between Russia and Poland. It is unclear what will happen to the arrested individuals, but they could face lengthy prison sentences if found guilty of spying.