Latvia's Security Service Detains Couple Suspected of Spying for Russian Military Intelligence

Latvia's State Security Service (VDD), working together with the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIDD), detained a couple on June 28 suspected of illegally collecting information about Latvia's defense sector on behalf of Russia's military intelligence agency, the GRU.

A criminal case against the detained Latvian citizens was opened on June 27 under Article 85, Part 1 of the Criminal Law, which covers the collection and transfer of classified and other information to a foreign intelligence service. The offense carries a prison sentence of one to ten years.

What information was passed on

The investigation found that the detainees supplied the GRU with information about Latvia's defense system, the activities of NATO allied forces, and various forms of support provided to Ukraine. The intelligence reportedly included details about a National Armed Forces air base, radar systems, and the movement of military aircraft.

One of the suspects, acting on GRU instructions, carried out visual reconnaissance of the Ādaži military base, photographing it from the air using a small private aircraft. Reconnaissance in a military context refers to visual scouting of terrain and enemy defenses ahead of combat operations. The pair also reportedly engaged in activities intended to support potential sabotage-reconnaissance groups operating on Latvian territory.

Searches and ongoing investigation

On the day of the detention, VDD and MIDD carried out procedural actions at three locations linked to the suspects in Riga and Ādaži municipality. Searches yielded a large number of data storage devices as well as documents and notes, the contents of which are now undergoing in-depth examination.

Both suspects have been remanded in custody as a security measure. VDD and MIDD say the investigation is continuing.