MI5, the UK’s domestic intelligence agency, is revealing previously hidden secrets for the first time in its 115-year history through the “MI5: Official Secrets” exhibition. The exhibit features historical insights, including the story of Karl Muller, a suspected German spy captured in 1915, who used lemon juice for invisible ink on intercepted letters before his execution at the Tower of London.

Founded to counter German invasion fears, MI5 now employs over 5,000 people. At the exhibition preview, MI5 Director Ken McCallum highlighted the agency’s real-life work, stating, “MI5 life is about ordinary human beings together doing extraordinary things to keep our country safe.”

The exhibition covers less glamorous episodes, including items from the Cold War, such as a passport belonging to double agent Guy Burgess and a note detailing the Queen’s reaction to revelations about her art advisor, Anthony Blunt, being a Soviet agent.

More recent displays include a mortar shell from an IRA attack on 10 Downing Street in 1991. Commentary from anonymous MI5 agents discusses the complexities of managing intelligence sources, asking crucial questions about motivation and loyalty.

The MI5 exhibition sheds light on the agency’s historical significance and the evolving role of intelligence work. It emphasises the importance of both transparency and historical context in understanding national security, while also showcasing the contributions of women in intelligence. The exhibition is a unique opportunity to engage with the agency’s past and test one’s spying potential.

Original Source: trt.global

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