A Bulgarian spy network operating in the UK has been dismantled after three members were convicted of spying for Russia. Described by police as “one of the largest” foreign intelligence operations in the country, the group conducted surveillance on investigative journalists, political dissidents, and military targets between 2020 and 2023.
The convicted individuals—Vanya Gaberova, 30, Katrin Ivanova, 33, and Tihomir Ivanchev, 39—all residing in London—led double lives while working as a beautician, healthcare worker, and decorator, respectively. They monitored high-profile targets, including US military bases and prominent journalists exposing Russian covert activities.
Commander Dominic Murphy of the Metropolitan Police described their methods as something “straight out of a spy novel.” The group’s leader, Orlin Roussev, 47, orchestrated the operation from a 33-room guesthouse in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. There, police uncovered a trove of espionage tools, including cameras hidden in ties, fake rocks, and recording-equipped glasses.
Roussev admitted to conspiracy to spy, alongside Biser Dzhambazov, 43, while a sixth member, Ivan Stoyanov, 34, confessed to espionage before the trial. The cell operated under instructions from Jan Marsalek, an Austrian national wanted in Germany for alleged fraud linked to Wirecard. Prosecutors described Marsalek as a conduit for Russian intelligence services.
Key Targets and Operations
The spy ring executed six major operations, each targeting individuals or entities deemed significant to Russian interests:
- Christo Grozev
A journalist known for exposing Russia’s involvement in poisoning Alexei Navalny and Sergei Skripal. The group surveilled him across Europe, discussing plans to rob, kidnap, or even kill him. - Roman Dobrokhotov
Another investigative journalist targeted for his work uncovering Russian covert operations. The spies followed him internationally and plotted to abduct him from the UK using a small boat. - Bergey Ryskaliyev
A Kazakh political dissident granted asylum in the UK. Targeting him was intended to strengthen Russia’s ties with Kazakhstan. - Kazakh Embassy Protest
The group planned a staged demonstration outside the Kazakh embassy in London to gain favor with Kazakhstan’s intelligence services. - Patch Barracks (US Military Base)
Surveillance focused on a US base in Stuttgart believed to train Ukrainian forces during Russia’s invasion. Advanced technology was deployed to gather intelligence. - Kirill Kachur
A former Russian official labeled a “foreign agent” by Moscow. The group allegedly planned to monitor his activities.
Personal Dynamics and Legal Proceedings
The spies maintained intricate personal relationships. For instance, Dzhambazov and Ivanova lived together as a couple but also ran a Bulgarian community organization promoting “British values.” Meanwhile, Gaberova had overlapping romantic ties with both Dzhambazov and Ivanchev.
During the trial, Ivanova and Gaberova admitted to conducting surveillance but claimed ignorance of its purpose. Ivanchev did not testify but stated in police interviews that he had interacted with MI5.
Prosecutors highlighted the group’s sophistication, noting their use of false identities, advanced technology, and meticulous planning. Commander Murphy emphasized the threat posed to national security and individual safety.
