Civil servant accused of leaking data to foreign agency

A civil servant working in Dublin has been accused of leaking sensitive government data to a foreign intelligence service. Yevgen McKeeffe, 45, who is originally from Ukraine but holds Irish citizenship, appeared before Dublin District Court where bail was refused.

The investigation was conducted by the Garda Special Detective Unit (SDU). McKeeffe, who has not yet entered a plea, holds the position of executive officer, a junior management role within the civil service. He was reportedly arrested on Thursday afternoon at Dublin Airport's departures area.

McKeeffe faces charges under Section 9 of the Theft and Fraud Offences Act for the unlawful use of a computer during his employment. If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of 10 years. While reporting restrictions were imposed regarding his address, workplace, and the implicated foreign country, the judge denied a defense request to withhold the accused's name.

Detective Sergeant Shay Palmer stated that McKeeffe "made no reply" when charged. The court heard allegations that the accused obtained and transferred official department data for personal gain, supplying it to a foreign intelligence service. Electronic devices and documents were seized from McKeeffe's home, and his work computer was also taken. Bail was refused, and legal aid was granted.

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