Spies possibly harassed by Ted (5)

I believe the answer is:

moles

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'spies' is the definition.
(mole is a kind of spy)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for moles that I've seen before include "Velvety burrowing mammals" , "Small velvety-furred burrowing mammals" , "Small dark spots on the skin" , "Traitorous spies" , "Burrowing animals or small growths on skin" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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