COPS have today charged a British ‘spy’, 64, with assisting Russian intelligence services.
Howard Phillips, of Harlow, London, was charged with an offence contrary to section 3 of the National Security Act, the Metropolitan Police confirmed.
He was arrested in central London by officers earlier today as part of an investigation by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.
Cops also searched an address Hertfordshire and one in Essex in their probe.
Howard Phillips was detained under section 27 of the National Security Act (NSA), 2023.
The force stated his arrest is not connected to any other recent charges or investigations linked to NSA offences.
A force spokesperson confirmed: “A warrant of further detention was obtained at Westminster Magistrates’ Court meaning he could be detained up until Thursday, 23 May, and following consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the CPS authorised the charge as above.
“As part of the investigation, which is being led by officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, officers also searched an address in the Hertfordshire area and an address in the Essex area.
“Both searches are now complete.
“The arrest is not connected to any other recent charges or investigations linked to NSA offences, and there is not believed to be any threat to the wider public in connection with this matter.”
Howard Phillips was remanded in police custody and appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court this afternoon.
Phillips, wearing a grey tracksuit, spoke only to confirm his address and date of birth.
Judge Daniel Sternberg denied Phillips bail and ordered him to appear at the Old Bailey on June 14.