Russian Military Intelligence Suspected in Parcel Fires Across Europe
Russia's military intelligence service is suspected of orchestrating a series of parcel fires targeting the UK and Europe, according to investigators.
European and British authorities initiated a joint investigation following several incidents in 2024 where parcels spontaneously ignited in Germany, Poland, and at a DHL depot in the UK.
Suspects Identified and Legal Proceedings
On Friday, investigators announced that 22 suspects had been identified in Lithuania and Poland. These individuals are suspected of "working on behalf of the military-intelligence service of the Russian Federation." Two cases have already been forwarded to court, officials stated.
Russia has not issued an immediate response but has consistently denied allegations by NATO countries accusing its secret services of sabotage operations throughout Europe.
Details of the Parcel Incidents
In July 2024, four parcels were dispatched from Lithuania to the UK and Poland, according to the European Union agency Eurojust.
Authorities revealed that the parcels contained explosive devices triggered by electronic timers concealed within vibrating massage pillows.
One parcel detonated at a DHL depot near Birmingham, while another exploded inside a DPD truck crossing Poland.
Additionally, a parcel caught fire at Leipzig airport in Germany within a sorting centre just before it was scheduled to be loaded onto an aircraft.
The head of Germany's domestic intelligence agency (BfV) remarked on the narrow avoidance of disaster, stating it was only by chance that the device did not ignite mid-flight.
Additional Discoveries and Intentions
Investigators also found two test packages sent to the US and Canada, along with two more packages in Amsterdam destined for the same countries.
Polish prosecutors previously described the series of parcel fires as dry runs aimed at sabotaging flights to the US and Canada.
Recruitment and Payment of Suspects
Eurojust reported that the 22 suspects were recruited from Russia, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, and Ukraine. Many were in a "vulnerable socio-economic situation."
They were recruited and instructed via an online messaging service and compensated in cryptocurrencies, the agency added.
Ongoing Investigation and Trials
The investigation remains active, with trials for two suspects expected later this year.
Context of Hybrid Warfare
Western leaders have warned of an escalating "hybrid war" conducted by Russia against Europe following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Despite repeated denials from Russia regarding sabotage activities, it is suspected to be responsible for other attacks on warehouses and railway networks in EU member states, including Sweden and the Czech Republic.
