China has accused Britain’s MI6 of recruiting a couple working for the Chinese government to spy for the UK, escalating the ongoing espionage allegations between Beijing and Western powers. The Ministry of State Security revealed that MI6 operatives convinced Wang and Zhou, who held key positions in a central state agency, to defect with promises of money and consulting services.
The British spies cultivated Wang while he was studying in the UK, targeting his weaknesses and interests before involving him in collecting intelligence on internal state affairs. Wang was then directed to coerce his wife, Zhou, into joining the espionage efforts. The ministry has taken action against Wang and is continuing to investigate the case.
This latest incident adds to the growing tension between China and Western countries over espionage activities. Just last month, a man charged with aiding Hong Kong in gathering intelligence in the UK was found dead, and German authorities arrested individuals suspected of spying for China. The increased transparency in revealing these cases highlights the heightened scrutiny on espionage activities.
For further information, the British Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office have been contacted for their response to the allegations.
© 2024 AFP