British authorities have released and deported to Bulgaria two Bulgarian nationals convicted of spying for Russia after they completed the mandatory half of their prison sentences, according to British and Bulgarian media reports. The two, Ivan Stoyanov and Vanya Gaberova, were among six Bulgarians sentenced last year for their roles in what prosecutors described as one of the largest Russian espionage operations uncovered in the UK in recent years.
It remains unclear what their legal status is after returning to Bulgaria. Their release has drawn criticism because several of the people targeted by the spy ring, including investigative journalist Christo Grozev, said they were never informed that the pair had been freed.
The espionage network was allegedly directed by former Wirecard executive Jan Marsalek, who is accused of acting on behalf of Russian intelligence. According to prosecutors, the group carried out surveillance operations across the UK and Europe, monitoring journalists, Russian dissidents, political figures, and Ukrainian military personnel.
Stoyanov, 33, admitted to conspiracy to commit espionage and received a sentence of five years and three weeks in prison. Gaberova, 30, a beautician based in northwest London, was sentenced to six years, eight months, and three weeks. Under the court's ruling, both were eligible for deportation after serving half of their prison terms.
