Authorities say encrypted messages and tracked transfers exposed a cross-border cell allegedly coordinating killings in Vilnius, but key suspects deny ties to foreign intelligence.
In Thessaloniki, authorities arrested a 55-year-old Greek, a native of the former Soviet Union, who is accused of involvement in a criminal network that allegedly planned killings in Lithuania.
According to the Vilnius Regional Court of Lithuania, the network acted on behalf of Russian intelligence services.
In Greece, a suspicious international conspiracy with elements of espionage was organized, and in Thessaloniki, law enforcement arrested a 55-year-old Greek – a native of the former Soviet Union – accused of involvement in a criminal network that allegedly planned killings in Lithuania
– report
Timeline of events and main charges
The alleged targets of the criminals were the exiled Russian activist Ruslan Gabbasov, who has political asylum in Lithuania, and Lithuanian citizen Valdas Bartkavicius, an active critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Both planned killings were ultimately foiled.
Investigators claim the operation began in January 2025, when the suspect man from Thessaloniki allegedly participated in early communications with a Georgian intermediary tasked with recruiting hitmen.
Two individuals agreed to carry out the killings for €40,000 each. It is reported that the suspects received photographs of both targets via WhatsApp and tracked them in Vilnius, monitoring their daily routines and movements.
Authorities say that investigators tracked security cameras, followed residential buildings, and even installed a tracking device on Gabbasov’s car. Surveillance materials were shared via encrypted apps with a person identified only as “Karl,” described as a high-ranking conspiracy coordinator.
Funds were transferred to the criminals to facilitate travel and logistics, including a €5,000 transfer made from Thessaloniki.
The suspects also attempted to purchase weapons; one high-ranking network member allegedly bought an underwater rifle. Lithuanian authorities conducted raids on March 12, 2025, arresting several suspects and issuing European arrest warrants for others.
The suspect in Thessaloniki was arrested in February; he denies the charges against him and is appealing extradition, citing life risk. Greek courts approved the extradition request pending a final ruling.
Earlier mentioned another case: former American officer David Sleiter pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transmit secret information related to Russia’s war against Ukraine through online dating.
In summary, investigative actions continue, and extradition procedures and subsequent steps by law enforcement remain under consideration by the courts.