Ex-Italian Agents Arrested for Spying for Russia

An Italian counter-espionage operation has led to the arrest of two former agents from the Italian intelligence agency AISE, accused of selling state secrets to Russia. The agents allegedly passed sensitive information regarding Italian intelligence and armaments to a Russian operative who was operating under diplomatic cover.

The investigation, which began over a year ago following a report from AISE, involved the Carabinieri's special operations unit. The two former agents, both retired for at least twelve years, were placed under house arrest on charges of espionage and unlawful access to computer systems. They reportedly met the Russian contact in public places like parks and cafes, exchanging information contained on small notes, sometimes hidden in everyday objects.

According to the investigation, Gavino Raoul Piras, a 59-year-old former intelligence operative and ex-non-commissioned officer, had exclusive contact with the alleged Russian agent. Piras, who described himself as an independent intelligence analyst after his career, had previously received the 'Legion of Merit' from the United States in 2012 for his service in Afghanistan and Iraq. His background includes studies at the NATO School in Oberammergau, Germany.

In addition to Piras, the other arrested former agent is Vincenzo Di Pasquale, also 59 and from Matera, who also previously worked for AISE. Five other individuals, including four active-duty military personnel, are under investigation for various offenses related to national security, including political or military espionage and revealing state secrets. Investigators reportedly found twenty thousand euros in cash with one of the suspects during searches.