Espionage in Alexandroupoli: House painter turned spy
A 59-year-old Georgian-born house painter has been arrested in Alexandroupoli, northeastern Greece, on charges of spying on behalf of Russian intelligence.
Authorities say the suspect, who had lived in Greece for years, was recruited in early fall 2024 by a compatriot with alleged ties to the Russian GRU.
Evidence retrieved from the man’s mobile phone suggests he had been surveilling military installations for at least six months, photographing equipment shipments – especially those bound for Ukraine – and sending images and descriptions to his handler. “He claimed he was willing to help the ‘motherland’ for any amount,” a Greek official said.
The alleged recruiter, also an ethnic Georgian, had previously conducted surveillance for Russian services before relocating to Lithuania, where he was reportedly arrested in March. Greek authorities emphasize the role of pro-Russian sentiment in the suspect’s motives.
This case follows previous incidents of Russian espionage uncovered by Greek and Baltic security agencies.
Kathimerini
