GENEVA: Swiss prosecutors announced on Saturday that they are investigating a Russian diplomat and two others suspected of attempting to acquire weapons and other potentially dangerous materials.
The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) disclosed that the investigation involves two individuals without diplomatic immunity, accused of violating Switzerland’s War Material Act and Embargo Act.
Furthermore, the OAG confirmed that authorization has been granted to extend the investigation to a third individual in the case, for whom a national arrest warrant has been issued.
According to Tages-Anzeiger, the diplomat, accredited in Bern, had been under surveillance by Swiss intelligence and is alleged to have engaged in espionage activities aimed at obtaining hazardous materials. After discreetly leaving Switzerland, the Swiss foreign ministry confirmed that his diplomatic immunity was revoked upon departure.
Subsequently, searches were conducted at several residences, leading the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP) to authorize prosecution.
The OAG emphasized that the accused individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty. This investigation coincides with growing concerns over the presence of Russian intelligence operatives in Switzerland since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Swiss lawmakers have urged a tougher stance on Russian espionage activities, particularly highlighting Geneva as a focal point for international espionage operations.
Last year, Switzerland’s Federal Intelligence Service (FIS) warned of a significant number of Russian intelligence officers operating under diplomatic cover in the country.
FIS chief Christian Dussey estimated that about one-third of the approximately 220 accredited personnel at the Russian mission in Geneva were affiliated with intelligence services.
