Police given more time to question soldier accused of spying for Russia
The 41-year-old man is now allowed to be detained until November 17th
Counterterrorism police have been given extra time to question an American soldier arrested in Gloucestershire accused of spying on behalf of Russia.
The unnamed 41-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday (November 10th) accused of spying for Moscow.
The soldier, who is believed to be a senior member of the US Army, was reportedly based at the Imjin Army Barracks, a US military base in Innsworth, Gloucestershire.
This barracks is particularly significatn as it is the home of NATO's Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, tasked with deployment at high-risk situations of international security.
After his arrest, two searches were carried out in two different locations in Gloucestershire, although the exact locations have not been made public.
FBI Director Kash Patel previously said that the man's arrest underpinned the need for security, saying the news was "of the utmost concern to the United States and our allies".
He added: "While this investigation is continuing, I want to send a clear message – this FBI has no tolerance for anyone who breaks their oath to the United States and whose actions endanger our national security and that of our partners."
Brigadier General Sean Stinchon, the commanding general of US Army Counterintelligence Command, said after the man was detained: “This case demonstrates the strength of our partnerships and the resolve of the counterintelligence community.
“I am grateful to the UK and the FBI for their professionalism and teamwork throughout this investigation.
“The alleged conduct of a senior soldier, entrusted with sensitive information, is a sobering reminder that insider threats are real and persistent.”