Ottawa vetted NATO intern arrested on suspicion of espionage
A Canadian intern at NATO headquarters in Belgium has been arrested on suspicion of espionage. While the individual likely lacked high-level clearance, the incident has raised concerns regarding Canada's vetting procedures for international placements.
Why it matters
This security breach poses a diplomatic embarrassment for Canada and prompts a review of how intelligence agencies screen personnel for sensitive international organizations.
As an intern at NATO, the alleged spy is unlikely to have had a high level of security clearance. But experts say the incident will be embarrassing for Canada, prompting questions about its vetting procedures. Hussein Malla/The Associated Press
A Canadian intern at NATO’s operational headquarters in Belgium who has been arrested on suspicion of espionage was vetted by Ottawa, two senior sources say.
Global Affairs Canada asked the RCMP to carry out a formal law enforcement record check, including to see whether she had any criminal convictions or police interactions, one source said.
The Globe and Mail is not naming the two sources, who were not authorized to discuss sensitive matters publicly.
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