Both Igor and Kira’s solicitors did not object to the prosecution’s request for an extension of time, nor did they seek bail.
A court in Brisbane heard that a couple, Igor Korolev (60) and Kira Korolev (42), accused of spying for Russia, had multiple digital devices confiscated from their apartment.
During a hearing on Sept. 20, Prosecutor Ellie McDonald informed the court that more time was needed to analyze the numerous seized digital devices.
“There’s a significant amount of material in this case. Twelve devices were confiscated,” she explained.
In July, Igor and Kira were arrested on charges of espionage for allegedly transmitting sensitive information to Russia.
Kira, an Australian Army private originally from Russia, and Igor, a self-employed laborer, were taken into custody by authorities.
The Korolevs, facing charges of preparing for espionage, were not physically present in court or appeared via video link. Both are currently in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.
Related Stories
Both Igor and Kira’s legal representatives did not contest the prosecution’s request for additional time and did not seek bail.
The couple, who have lived in Australia for about a decade and were married when they arrived, have not yet entered pleas. If convicted, they could face up to 15 years in prison.
Prosecutors claim that Kira, who was on extended leave from the Australian Defence Force, traveled to Russia without informing authorities in 2023. During this period, she allegedly instructed her husband to access her official work account and retrieve sensitive information, which was then sent to her personal email account.
In court, Magistrate Peter Saggers granted the prosecution’s request for more time, with Dec. 13 set as the deadline for the submission of a full evidence brief. The case will be reviewed again on Dec. 20.
This article includes contributions from AAP.
