Russian intelligence suspected after Birmingham targeted in ‘self-igniting parcel’ attacks

Russian Intelligence Suspected in Birmingham Freight Fire, Police Investigate

Birmingham Incident Part of Larger European Attack Pattern

Following a fire at a DHL warehouse in Birmingham in July 2024, authorities have linked the event to a series of “self-igniting” parcel incidents across Europe. The Met Police confirmed an international inquiry is underway after multiple cargo fires were reported.

The blaze, which occurred at a logistics center in Birmingham, is being examined alongside other explosions on the continent. A 38-year-old Romani man was detained in the UK last year on suspicion of aiding a foreign intelligence service. Though released, he remains under scrutiny.

“Russian military intelligence is believed to be behind these incidents,” stated Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans. “Our cooperation has allowed us to identify their involvement in a string of attacks across Europe.”

Parcels Traced to Lithuania, Multiple Incidents Uncovered

A joint statement from European investigators revealed that four parcels were dispatched from Lithuania to UK and Polish addresses in July 2024. One ignited at Leipzig Airport before being loaded onto a plane, another detonated inside a Polish truck, and a third was seized intact. The fourth became the Birmingham fire.

Test packages were also sent to the U.S. and Canada, with two more destined for North America intercepted in Amsterdam. Eurojust, the EU’s judicial body, noted that 22 individuals in Lithuania and Poland are suspected of working for Russian military intelligence.

Recruitment and Operations Details Emerge

According to Eurojust, the alleged perpetrators were recruited and directed via an online messaging platform. Tasks were distributed among suspects, with some receiving cryptocurrency as compensation. These individuals hailed from Slavic and Baltic countries and were often in precarious financial conditions.

Two of the suspects are set to face trial this year, as courts prepare to review their cases. The investigation involves five nations: the UK, Germany, Netherlands, Poland, and Lithuania. DAC Evans emphasized the importance of cross-border collaboration in uncovering the threat.

“We are actively working with partners to safeguard the logistics sector and public safety,” she added. “The activity of foreign states in the UK is a growing concern, and we remain transparent about our findings.”