Cyprus Spy investigations intensified after Cypriot authorities arrested a dual British-Azerbaijani national on suspicion of conducting surveillance on a British military base and allegedly sharing intelligence with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
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The Metropolitan Police identified the suspect as Rashad Sultanov, 44, from Islington in north London.
Cypriot authorities arrested him on July 17, and he remains in custody while extradition proceedings continue.
UK Launches Overseas Security Investigation
The Metropolitan Police said the arrest forms part of Britain’s first overseas investigation under the National Security Act.
Counter-terrorism officers are leading the inquiry into alleged incidents at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus between May 11 and June 22 last year.
According to investigators, Sultanov allegedly carried out hostile surveillance of the military base.
Police also allege that he passed the gathered information to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Police Highlight National Security Powers
Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing in London, said the case demonstrates Britain’s ability to apply the National Security Act beyond its borders.
She added that the legislation allows authorities to investigate cases involving alleged hostile state activity targeting British military facilities overseas.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not announced any further charges.
