3 months ago
35
An Australian soldier and her partner, accused of spying for Russia, will spend Christmas behind bars as their case was pushed back to next year, as prosecutors sift through further evidence.
Kira Korolev, 41, who was in the Australian Army, and her husband Igor Korolev, 63, were arrested last year at their home in Brisbane’s north side.
Kira Korolev and Igor Korolev, the accused Russian spies arrested in Brisbane.
Ms Korolev, who was born in Russia, was charged alongside her labourer partner with preparing to carry out an act of espionage. The case triggered national concerns of foreign interference given Ms Korolev’s position in the army as an information systems technician.
Ms Korolev had served for several years, and held Australian Defence Force security clearance.
Earlier this year, the court heard prosecutors were sifting through millions of pieces of evidence in the case, with many documents still to be translated into English.
A “large volume” of the material was in Russian and required interpretation, the court heard.
Australian Federal Police at the couple’s unit complex in Everton Park, Brisbane.
On Friday, Commonwealth prosecutor Ellie McDonald told the court a full brief of evidence had been served on the defence yesterday.
“It’s anticipated that there will be a fifth service of the brief of evidence to be provided ... this will be provided by the end of the year,” she said.
The court heard Ms Korolev was still awaiting funding from legal aid.
Anastasia Stoenko, representing Mr Korolev, said the court had been told the final evidence would be provided by this hearing.
“On the last occasion we were advised this would be the last piece of the brief. Particulars for the matter were also requested,” Stoenko said.
The matter was adjourned to February, with the Korolevs remanded in custody.
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
Most Viewed in National
Loading
