Man Arrested in Portugal for Stealing NATO Military Equipment and Attempted Espionage

In Portugal, a 23-year-old man was arrested for the theft of NATO military equipment from a hotel and for attempting to sell the obtained data to the Russian Embassy in Lisbon. The information was confirmed by the Portuguese Public Prosecutor’s Office.

The incident occurred during an international military conference held at a naval base near Lisbon. According to the prosecutor’s office, the suspect deliberately checked into a hotel where the event’s military participants were staying.

During the event he stole a laptop and an iPad belonging to NATO and Swedish military personnel. Believing the devices contained secret information, the man attempted to access the files and copy them.

After this, he headed to the Russian Embassy with the intention of selling the gathered data. However, the attempt failed.

During the investigation he claimed the alleged existence of a spy network, of which he said he was a member together with another law enforcement officer. Investigators found that this version was invented and was intended to divert attention away from him.

The man is charged with attempted espionage, several counts of theft, using other people’s documents, false testimony, libel, and other crimes. He remains in custody; two other suspects are also named in the case.