Two former Italian intelligence officers arrested over alleged Russian spy ring

Rome - Two former Italian intelligence officers have been arrested in Rome on suspicion of spying for Russia, in a counter-intelligence investigation that also involves four serving members of the Italian armed forces accused of leaking classified information, security sources say.

The principal suspect, identified in media reports as 59 year old former intelligence officer and ex Carabinieri non commissioned officer Gavino Raoul Piras, is accused of passing sensitive information to a suspected Russian intelligence operative in exchange for money. According to prosecutors, the alleged Russian agent was operating in Italy under diplomatic immunity.

 Investigators allege that Piras obtained confidential information through six sources, including four serving military personnel employed in highly sensitive positions. The military officers are among five additional suspects under investigation but have not been arrested.

 According to prosecutors, Piras maintained repeated contacts with the alleged Russian operative, who is said to have requested specific information while paying for classified material relating to Italy's national security and political interests. Authorities allege the information should have remained secret under Italian law.

 The second man arrested is 59-year-old Vincenzo Di Pasquale, another former officer of the Italian Intelligence and Security Agency (AISI) and former Carabinieri officer. Both men are accused of offences including espionage, the disclosure of classified information and unauthorised access to computer systems.

 The investigation, coordinated by both the Rome Public Prosecutor's Office and the Military Prosecutor's Office, began in May 2025 after AISI uncovered what officials describe as an attempt by Russian intelligence to recruit a retired Italian operative. Investigators believe the former agent was tasked with obtaining classified information concerning Italy's defence industry.

During the inquiry, officers from the Carabinieri's Special Operations Group (ROS) carried out surveillance, searches, forensic examinations and monitoring operations. Arrest warrants were issued by a Rome investigating judge following requests from prosecutors.

Among the additional suspects are four serving military personnel and another civilian, who are being investigated for offences including political and military espionage, procurement of information concerning state security and the disclosure of state secrets.

Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto praised magistrates and investigators for their work, stating that there could be "no tolerance" for anyone who compromises the Republic's security, particularly those entrusted with positions of responsibility.

Italy's parliamentary committee overseeing the intelligence services is also expected to request full information from the government and prosecutors as the investigation continues.

PS