Cyprus Times

Air Force Officer Detained on Espionage Charges After Marathon Interrogation

Published February 10, 2026, 17:11
Air Force Officer Detained on Espionage Charges After Marathon Interrogation

A 54-year-old Air Force officer has been detained following an eight-hour interrogation regarding espionage charges in favor of China. The officer confessed to espionage but claims he was deceived and subsequently threatened and blackmailed after realizing his involvement. The initial contact allegedly occurred through LinkedIn by individuals linked to a Malaysian-based company posing as a consultancy firm. The officer stated he faced pressure during a trip to China to hand over sensitive information and documents, even expressing a desire to be convicted. The investigation is ongoing to determine the extent of the information transmitted and the circumstances of the case.