Two Bulgarian women linked to Russian spy ring identified

Two Bulgarian women, Cvetelina Gencheva and Tsvetanka Doncheva, are linked to a sophisticated Russian spy network in the UK. They are associated with a "honey-trap" operation that involved espionage on behalf of the Russian government. The BBC has tracked Gencheva, but she refused to comment when contacted. Doncheva, approached in Vienna, denied her identity and left quickly. This spy ring was recently uncovered, with several members already convicted of espionage. The group conducted surveillance and espionage missions for Russia while targeting critics of President Vladimir Putin. The operation was reportedly headed by Orlin Roussev, a former tech worker. Officers from the Metropolitan Police have described this network as dangerous and complex. They seized advanced spying equipment during raids in London and Great Yarmouth in February 2023. Commander Dominic Murphy highlighted the increasing use of foreign proxies for espionage in the UK, calling it a significant threat to national security. The investigation underscores the need for ongoing vigilance against such activities. The police are committed to collaborating with intelligence agencies and international partners to keep the UK safe.