Tensions between the UK and Russia are at their worst in decades. A recent legal case has added to concerns about foreign interference and sabotage.
Jake Reeves, a 22-year-old British man, admitted to receiving money from a foreign intelligence service to commit arson.
The fire targeted commercial spaces in East London earlier this year, according to Digi24.
Reeves pleaded guilty at Woolwich Crown Court to charges of aggravated arson. He also admitted to accepting material benefits under the UK’s National Security Act (NSA).
The act, introduced last year, aims to combat hostile state activities. Prosecutors decided not to pursue a separate charge against Reeves for preparing an act that endangered lives or public safety.
Linked to Russia
Dylan Earl, another man involved, admitted to his role in the same fire last month.
The 20-year-old pleaded guilty under the NSA for actions described by prosecutors as benefiting the Russian state.
The Crown Prosecution Service had stated earlier that Earl’s actions were linked to Russia.
Three other suspects have denied aggravated arson charges. Another individual has not entered a plea yet.
A sixth person is accused of withholding information about potential terrorist activities but denies the charge.
The fire occurred in March at a commercial facility in East London.
The details of the foreign intelligence connection have not been fully disclosed. However, prosecutors believe the acts were part of efforts to cause disruption in the UK.
Reeves and Earl will face sentencing after a trial scheduled for June next year. This trial will also address charges against the other suspects.
Relations between the UK and Russia have worsened since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
British officials have accused Russian intelligence services of attempting to create chaos in the UK. Acts of sabotage, including the recent fire, are seen as part of these efforts.
