China Alleges MI6 Recruited Two Chinese State Employees as Spies

In a new development in the ongoing feud over espionage, China has accused Britain’s Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) of recruiting two staff members from unnamed Chinese central state organs to act as spies for the British government. This accusation was made public by China’s State Security Ministry in a statement released on Monday.

The ministry revealed that the two individuals involved are a married couple and that the case against them is currently under further investigation.

Espionage Accusations Escalate

For several months, China and Britain have exchanged accusations related to espionage, each claiming that the other is compromising national security. In January, China announced an espionage case where it claimed MI6 had used a foreigner in China to gather secrets and information.

In response, Britain has made several charges against individuals allegedly spying for China. In April, two people were charged with providing prejudicial information to China, and last month, three more were charged with assisting Hong Kong’s foreign intelligence service in the UK.

Details of the Alleged Recruitment

According to the Chinese ministry’s statement, one of the accused spies, identified by the surname Wang, studied in the UK in 2015 as part of an exchange program. During his time in the UK, Wang was allegedly invited to dinners and tours arranged covertly by MI6.

Wang, described as having “a strong desire for money,” was reportedly lured into a lucrative part-time consulting opportunity. This initial engagement paved the way for MI6 to approach him with offers of even greater financial rewards and security in exchange for his services to the British government. Wang accepted the offer.

Espionage Training and Return to China

After undergoing espionage training, Wang was instructed by MI6 to return to China and collect sensitive information related to the Chinese government. The ministry’s statement also claims that MI6 persuaded Wang to recruit his wife, identified by the surname Zhou, who worked in a “core government unit.” The offer was double the financial reward, which Zhou eventually accepted.

Growing Tensions

This latest revelation comes amid a backdrop of increasing diplomatic tensions between China and Britain over allegations of espionage. Both nations have been locked in a cycle of accusations and counter-accusations, raising concerns over the impact on their bilateral relations.

The Chinese ministry’s detailed account of MI6’s alleged operations highlights the complexities and risks inherent in international espionage. As the investigation continues, the diplomatic fallout between China and Britain is likely to further strain their already tense relationship.