FRA investigation against Lena Huovinen dropped after nearly three years

Swedish prosecutors have dropped a nearly three-year investigation into Lena Huovinen, the former FRA analyst known as the “FRA woman,” who was suspected of gross unauthorized handling of classified information and serious data intrusion, SVT reports.

Huovinen, who worked at the National Defence Radio Establishment (FRA) for 28 years, was arrested in October 2023 during a Säpo raid at her home in the Stockholm region. She was held in custody for nearly two months before the allegations forced her to resign.

Prosecutors closed the case after secrecy restrictions prevented them from interviewing key witnesses on essential details. Chief prosecutor Per Lindqvist stated that, since the offence could not be proven, the suspect must be considered innocent.

Huovinen called the decision to drop the case both a relief and a disappointment, particularly over the length of the investigation. She criticized Säpo’s handling of the case, from the dramatic raid to what she described as a prolonged attempt to find grounds for prosecution without success.

“I once had great trust in our authorities and Säpo. I no longer do,” she told SVT. She added that the secrecy surrounding the allegations left her unable to fully clear her name.

Säpo defended its actions, describing the case as extensive and complex. Press chief Karl Melin said the agency acts when there is suspicion of criminal activity affecting its operations, but acknowledged that witness testimony could not be obtained in all areas due to secrecy constraints.