Dylan James Earl, a 20-year-old British man, faces allegations of orchestrating arson attacks on Ukrainian-linked businesses in London under instructions from the Wagner Group, a Kremlin-associated terror group. The incidents, occurring in March, involved targeting two industrial units in Leyton, East London. Charged with aggravated arson and assisting a foreign intelligence service, Earl, along with co-defendants, is scheduled for trial at the Old Bailey in the upcoming summer. Earl’s case represents an application of the UK’s National Security Act 2023, highlighting increased concerns over foreign espionage and sabotage in the UK. While Earl remains in custody, a co-defendant charged with failing to disclose information about terrorist acts has been released on bail with conditions.

In a separate case relating to espionage, Christopher Cash, a former parliamentary researcher, and Christopher Berry, a teacher, are accused of spying for China. Their charges, under the Official Secrets Act, involve sharing sensitive information potentially harmful to the UK. The trial, expected in 2025, will explore allegations significant to national security. Both have been released on conditional bail, with specific restrictions, including Cash not contacting MPs or accessing the Parliamentary estate. Further hearings are scheduled as the case progresses towards trial.

These cases underscore the ongoing legal and security challenges the UK faces concerning international espionage and domestic safety.