Member of US army arrested on suspicion of offences under National Security Act

A member of the US Army has been arrested on suspicion of offences under the National Security Act 2023 which relate to Russia, Counter Terrorism Policing London has said.

The man – who is said to be a “senior soldier” – was arrested as part of an investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP), working closely with US authorities, the US military and the FBI, the force added.

The 41-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of offences under Section 1 and Section 3 of the National Security Act 2023 near Gloucester on Tuesday.

An FBI official said the arrest involves allegations of espionage.

He remains in custody at a London police station.

Officers are carrying out searches at two locations in Gloucestershire.

CTP said the country to which the allegations relate is Russia.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, senior national co-ordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said: “This significant arrest and investigation is a result of close collaboration between UK and US authorities.

“The allegations are serious and our investigation is very much ongoing.

“This activity demonstrates the strength of our UK and US law enforcement and national security partnerships, and I commend the work of all the teams involved.

“We will work together to take robust action against those we suspect of any criminal activity that could undermine our national security.”

FBI director Kash Patel said: “This important arrest involves allegations of espionage, which is of the utmost concern to the United States and our allies.

“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.

“This includes 167 counterintelligence and espionage arrests from this FBI over the last 21 months – a 53% increase.

“This matter shows that partnerships are essential to protect our countries and I want to express my thanks to UK Counter Terrorism Policing, MI5, UK Defence Counter Intelligence, and the US Army Counterintelligence Command for their outstanding work.”

Brigadier General Sean Stinchon, the commanding general of US Army Counterintelligence Command, said: “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.

“I encourage anyone who thinks they’ve witnessed something suspicious to report it to their local counterintelligence office.”

The investigation is being led by officers from CTP London and inquiries continue.