Portuguese law enforcement has arrested a 23-year-old man accused of stealing military equipment belonging to NATO from a hotel during an international military conference. The General Prosecutor’s Office of Portugal reported the incident, which occurred at a naval base near Lisbon.
The suspect allegedly checked into the hotel where military personnel were staying, specifically targeting their belongings. He is accused of stealing a laptop and an iPad that belonged to NATO and Swedish military members, believing that the devices contained sensitive information.
Following the theft, the suspect reportedly attempted to sell the stolen data at the Russian embassy in Lisbon. However, his efforts were unsuccessful, and he was apprehended shortly thereafter.
During questioning, the arrested individual claimed to be part of a spy network that included other individuals, including a law enforcement officer. Investigators determined that this assertion was fabricated, intended to divert attention from his actions.
The man faces multiple charges, including attempted espionage, theft, identity fraud, providing false testimony, and defamation. He is currently in custody, and two additional suspects are also under investigation in connection with the case.
A 23-year-old man has been arrested in Portugal for stealing NATO military equipment during a conference. He attempted to sell the data at the Russian embassy but was apprehended by authorities.