Summary
The Metropolitan Police in London reports that hostile states like Russia and Iran are recruiting young people for criminal activities such as sabotage. There has been a significant increase in these activities following the 2018 Salisbury poisonings. The police urge parents to monitor their children's online activities to prevent involvement with foreign powers.
Key Facts
- Hostile states like Russia and Iran are recruiting young people in the UK for crimes.
- Cdr Dominic Murphy from the Met Police noted a five-fold increase in such activities since 2018.
- Young people, including teenagers, are being targeted for recruitment.
- Parents are encouraged to watch their children's online behavior closely.
- A warehouse arson in London, linked to Russia's Wagner Group, targeted aid for Ukraine.
- More than 20% of the UK's counter-terrorism efforts now deal with threats from foreign states.
- Motivations for recruits can include money and a sense of belonging.
- The UK government continues to work on disrupting such threats.
