A network of alleged Russian agents have been trying to secure second citizenships to avoid being detected by authorities. Some of these agents have been identified, while the authorities are currently searching for some others who belong to the same network.
The authorities have shared that these Russian Agents had previously applied for Citizenship of European nations and Malta, which they were not approved for, due to suspected fraudulent activity.
The authorities have shared that the three agents who have been identified as part of the investigation are: Christina, Vasily Istomin, Maxim Petrovich Zharkhov. These suspected Russian agents were engaged in illegal and fraud activities and want to use Citizenship Programs to evade the law.
The authorities are actively looking for the three fraudsters as they took the support of underhanded activities to secure the alternate citizenship of Europe. Sources have confirmed that there is an active and ongoing investigation in this matter and the three suspects will be arrested.
The alleged suspects reportedly used underhanded means to secure European Citizenship by deception. The suspects provided false documents, concealed their true identities, and shared fake background information.
The investigating officers have confirmed that this incident is not unique and such instances of fraud and deception have been recorded previously. In April 2023, a group of 19 was arrested for being a part of a conspiracy to secure citizenship for Russian citizens who were trying to avoid military service.
The authorities have shared that this incident has led to the world going on a lookout for similar instances. Ever since reports regarding the activities of these Russian Agents have come to light, the stakeholders in the Citizenship and migration sector have become more vigilant.
The authorities have since confirmed that they are dedicated to strict implementation of the rules. They assert that the due diligence procedures have also been enhanced for the safety and security of the nations involved.
The authorities have called on people to make sure that the Citizenship Migration programs are not used as tools to facilitate illegal activities. The authorities have shared that national security and international relations should remain a priority.
When the three fraudsters, Christina, Vasily Istomin, Maxim Petrovich Zharkhov, are arrested after thorough investigation, the development is expected to prevent abuse of Citizenship, Residency, and similar programs.