The Metropolitan Police have arrested three men in London, suspected of being Russian spies. The arrests occurred earlier today at various addresses in west and central London. The men, aged 48, 45, and 44, are currently under investigation for allegedly assisting a foreign intelligence service, in violation of the National Security Act (NSA) 2023.

Ongoing searches are being conducted at the locations linked to the suspects, as well as an additional address in west London. The police have confirmed that the alleged offences are connected to Russia.

Commander Dominic Murphy, who leads Counter Terrorism Policing in London, stated, "We’re seeing an increasing number of who we would describe as 'proxies' being recruited by foreign intelligence services. These arrests are directly related to our ongoing efforts to disrupt this type of activity."

Murphy further warned, "Anyone who might be contacted by and tempted into carrying out criminal activity on behalf of a foreign state here in the UK should think again. This kind of activity will be investigated, and anyone found to be involved can expect to be prosecuted. There are potentially very serious consequences for those who are convicted."

The arrests highlight the ongoing concerns regarding foreign espionage activities within the UK, particularly in relation to Russian intelligence operations. The police continue to urge vigilance among the public regarding any suspicious activities that may indicate foreign interference.