The case of the alleged spy arrested in Alexandroupoli has taken a significant turn, with new intelligence suggesting ties to Russia’s military intelligence agency, the GRU, and possible sabotage operations in the Balkans.
The 59-year-old ethnic Greek from Georgia, who was apprehended near a military zone by the Evros border fence while allegedly filming military cargo movements, has been formally remanded in custody.
Greek authorities report that he was working under the direction of a Russian handler codenamed “Vicentios,” also of Georgian origin, who was tracked and detained in Lithuania.
Greek intelligence (EYP) had reportedly been monitoring the handler since last summer.
According to officials, “Vicentios” had been involved in covert GRU sabotage missions across Balkan states over the past three years, indicating he was not only a recruiter but also an active operative.
Initially, the suspect reportedly admitted during police questioning that he was working for Russian intelligence.
However, during his formal testimony before the examining magistrate, he reversed his statement, denying all charges.
He claimed he never referred to “Mother Russia” and denied ever confessing to espionage.
Legal proceedings are now underway to determine the specific charges he will face. According to local media, the most likely scenario is prosecution for peacetime espionage, a charge that carries a prison sentence of 5 to 10 years under Greek law.
The case unfolds at a time of heightened regional security concerns and increased scrutiny of foreign intelligence activity in Greece.