The employee was Julian Croft, the airline’s senior logistics executive. He had access to sensitive passenger records and confidential corporate documents. Investigators discovered that he had repeatedly arranged unauthorized seat changes for wealthy business associates. But those changes were only a small part of his activities. He had allegedly been using privileged access to obtain confidential investment information and pass it to outside companies before major business announcements. Richard’s company appeared among the beneficiaries.

Marcus immediately contacted the airline’s legal department and requested that all relevant records be preserved. Richard finally admitted that Julian had promised him preferential travel arrangements in exchange for helping arrange private investment meetings. He claimed he never knew the information was stolen. Then security uncovered an encrypted message sent shortly before boarding. Its contents included Zara’s name, her flight number, and a disturbing instruction: “Make sure the girl never reaches London with the documents.”