MI5 knew agent was misogynist ‘obsessed’ with violence, watchdog finds

MI5 knew agent was misogynist 'obsessed' with violence, watchdog finds

MI5 knew agent was misogynist obsessed - The UK's intelligence agency, MI5, was aware of an informant it protected in court who exhibited misogynistic behavior and an intense fixation on violence, according to a recent report by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner's Office (IPCO). This conclusion was reached after the BBC revealed how MI5 concealed the man's actions, leading to a secret inquiry initiated by IPCO.

In 2022, the government contested the BBC's investigation in court, attempting to halt scrutiny of the neo-Nazi informant known as Agent X. The case ultimately secured X's legal anonymity, despite the BBC's claims about his abusive conduct. The report disclosed that X had used his MI5 role to exert coercive influence over his former partner, including a machete attack, before relocating abroad to continue his intelligence work while still under investigation.

IPCO inquiry reveals MI5's oversight

Following the BBC's report, IPCO, led by Sir Brian Leveson, launched a confidential inquiry. The findings showed that while X's violent inclinations and misogyny were evident, MI5 did not reassess his suitability as an agent. Video evidence of him threatening his girlfriend with a machete was noted, yet no action was taken to address his behavior.

"I'd like to see a full apology for the fact that MI5 actually were willing to use somebody like X and the fact they were aware of his abuse towards me and they did nothing at all," said Beth, X's former partner.

IPCO's report highlighted a "lack of sufficient professional curiosity" from MI5 handlers, who knew X was part of a pickup artistry movement aimed at exploiting women for sex. Despite his "obsessed" interest in extreme violence, the agency failed to act on the warnings.

MI5's policies under scrutiny

The inquiry also revealed that MI5 misled IPCO about its "neither confirm nor deny" secrecy policy regarding X's status. In 2020, MI5 had informed the BBC of X's role to prevent investigation, but this was later concealed. The agency also provided false evidence to three courts, prompting further scrutiny from IPCO.

An internal MI5 document, obtained by the BBC, showed a team leader admitting X should never have been employed as a covert human intelligence source (CHIS). "This whole case has been a disaster for everyone, and on reflection, we shouldn't have touched him [X] as a CHIS," the officer stated.

Government's acknowledgment

For the first time, the government has publicly accepted the abuse Beth endured, after years of undermining her in legal proceedings. During the 2022 court battle, officials argued the BBC's case rested on "anything but solid" foundations and cast doubt on Beth's credibility. However, in a new statement, a government spokesperson acknowledged the "abhorrent" nature of her experience and expressed sympathy.

The IPCO inspection, which concluded in 2024, found no indication in MI5's records that the agency was aware of X's potential for malicious intent. The report was recently shared with the BBC amid ongoing legal proceedings, which are set to conclude with an imminent statement from IPCO to the prime minister.