A Brisbane couple accused of spying on Australia for Russia had multiple digital devices seized from their apartment, a court has heard. During a hearing on Sept. 20, Prosecutor Ellie McDonald informed the court that additional time was needed to examine the various confiscated digital devices. “There’s a significant volume of material in this matter. Twelve devices were seized,” she stated.
In July, Igor Korolev (60) and Kira Korolev (42) were arrested on allegations of espionage, accused of sending sensitive information to Russia. Kira, an Australian Army private originally from Russia, and Igor, a self-employed labourer, were taken into custody by police.
The Korolevs, who face charges of preparing for espionage, were not present in court or appeared via video link. Both are being held in custody as they await further legal proceedings.
Solicitors for both Igor and Kira did not oppose the prosecution’s request for more time nor did they apply for bail.
The couple lived in Australia for approximately 10 years and were married when they arrived but have yet to enter pleas. If proven guilty, the charges against them could carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
Prosecutors allege that Kira travelled to Russia without notifying authorities while on long-term leave from the Australian Defence Force in 2023. During this time, she allegedly instructed her husband to access her official work account and retrieve sensitive information which was then sent to her private email account.
In court, Magistrate Peter Saggers granted the prosecution’s request for more time setting Dec. 13 as the deadline for submitting a full brief of evidence. The case will be revisited on Dec. 20.
