Member of the Royal Navy charged with 'spying for foreign power' after being arrested by counter terror police

Published: 07:55 BST, 8 October 2026 | Updated: 08:01 BST, 8 October 2026

A member of the Royal Navy has been charged with national security offences alleged to involve spying for a foreign power after being arrested by counter terror police. 

Teddy Young, 24, was arrested at home in Bedfordshire on Tuesday and taken into custody in London.

Yesterday he was charged with engaging in conduct in preparation for committing an offence of disclosing protected information between November 26 2024 and May 21 2025.

He was also charged with obtaining, copying, recording or retaining protected information, intending the conduct to benefit a foreign power, between the same dates. 

This was done while Young knew or ought reasonably to know this was prejudicial to the safety or interests of the United Kingdom. Both are contrary to the National Security Act 2023.

The Met Police did not disclose which foreign country Young is alleged to have tried to assist. 

But his arrest is not related to recent counter terror investigations, including the incident at RAF Fairford, officers said. 

Teddy Young, 24, was arrested at home in Bedfordshire on Tuesday and taken into custody in London (Pictured: New Scotland Yard)

He is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court later today.

Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: 'These are very serious charges against a serving member of the armed forces. 

'We have worked extremely closely with relevant operational colleagues within the Ministry of Defence as our investigation has progressed to ensure appropriate measures could be taken to mitigate any potential risks linked to this matter.

'It is important now that any further speculation on this case is avoided and so that the case can progress through the courts and the justice process not be impeded in any way.'