Polish authorities have reportedly apprehended a Russian hockey player who competed in a top Polish league on suspicion of espionage. The detainee is the 14th member of a spy network to be arrested in the NATO country and is accused of participating in an organized crime group and of acting on behalf of foreign intelligence against the interests of Poland. The suspect is alleged to have regularly passed on information about the results of their reconnaissance operations, for which they were regularly paid.

Additionally, the group is said to have been used by the Russians to conduct intelligence activities, including the monitoring of railways and the spreading of propaganda targeting NATO and Poland. Moreover, the suspects allegedly prepared acts of sabotage, which were reportedly ordered by the Russian intelligence. Justice Minister and Chief Prosecutor Zbigniew Ziobro commented on the arrest, saying “A spy who operated under the guise of an athlete was caught”. He added that the whole ring was paid for the tasks carried out.

If convicted, the suspect could face a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The apprehension of the Russian hockey player is a testament to the Polish authorities’ commitment to national security. It serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and cooperation among NATO members in protecting their borders from foreign espionage.