London: Three men have been arrested on suspicion of spying for China and allegedly targeting UK democracy. The Metropolitan Police announced that the suspects, aged 39, 43, and 68, were apprehended by counter-terrorism officers in London and Wales. They stand accused of assisting a foreign intelligence service. All three remain in custody as searches continue at the addresses where they were arrested.
According to Ghana News Agency, the arrests included the partner of a Labour lawmaker, as reported by several sources. In response, both Chinese officials in the UK and Beijing have faced stern warnings, as disclosed by a minister to MPs. Security Minister Dan Jarvis updated the Commons, indicating that there would be severe consequences if it is found that China attempted to interfere with UK sovereign affairs. He emphasized that the investigation focuses on foreign interference targeting UK democracy.
Jarvis assured MPs of the government's commitment to safeguarding the UK's democratic institutions and processes. He highlighted that the National Security Act equips intelligence agencies and law enforcement with necessary legal tools to deter, detect, and disrupt state threats. The recent actions by counter-terrorism police were cited as evidence of the legislation's effectiveness.
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, noted a significant increase in national security-related cases in recent years. She emphasized the close collaboration with partners to ensure public safety and disrupt suspected malign activities. Besides the initial arrests, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that searches were conducted at three additional properties in London, East Kilbride in Scotland, and Cardiff.