Children as young as 15 have been apprehended for serving as proxies for foreign states, according to Counter Terrorism Police. Authorities caution that minors are being enlisted by China, Russia, and Iran due to their cost-effectiveness and expendability. National Coordinator Vicki Evans expressed concerns over the use of proxies, emphasizing the need for public awareness.
Evans highlighted that there is no specific profile for a proxy, and individuals may not realize they are being targeted. Recruitment can occur in various settings such as workplaces, homes, or public spaces. She warned young people involved in such activities that they would face legal consequences alone, emphasizing the enhanced powers now in place to combat those acting on behalf of hostile states.
Since December 2023, five individuals have been sentenced to over 50 years in prison for their roles as proxies. Evans made these statements during a press briefing following the Royal Assent of the National Security (State Threats) Bill, which grants the Home Secretary new authority to safeguard the public from individuals and groups engaged in hostile activities for foreign nations, including their proxies.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the country and communities. The new powers provided under the legislation aim to dismantle and deter hostile activities, empowering law enforcement and intelligence agencies to pursue foreign entities and their proxies to safeguard communities and democratic values.
The National Security Act 2023 equips authorities with enhanced tools to identify and disrupt hostile activities and prosecute offenders effectively. Several convictions have already been secured, including those of Russian proxies involved in an arson incident in London and individuals targeting Hong Kong residents in the UK.