The Federal Prosecutor’s Office in Germany announced the arrest of three German nationals, identified only by their initials due to privacy laws, on charges of spying for China. The individuals were apprehended by the Federal Criminal Police Office in Düsseldorf and Bad Homburg. Searches were conducted at their homes and workplaces as part of the investigation.
The allegations center on the trio’s involvement in transferring sensitive technology to China, specifically advancements in machine parts for ship engines, which could potentially be used in military applications. According to the prosecutors, this technology transfer included the illegal export of a high-powered laser, which was purchased with funds provided by the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) and was subject to the European Union’s Dual-Use Regulation.
One of the accused, referred to as Thomas R., is alleged to have functioned as an intermediary between the Chinese secret service and the other two suspects, a married couple who managed an engineering firm in Düsseldorf. This firm purportedly facilitated connections between Chinese interests and German researchers, culminating in a contract with a German university to develop state-of-the-art machinery for combat ships.
The situation has elicited a strong response from German officials. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser highlighted the significant risk posed by espionage activities targeting Germany’s business, industry, and scientific sectors. Justice Minister Marco Buschmann praised the investigative efforts and emphasized the importance of vigilance against such threats.
China, however, has rejected these accusations. The Chinese Embassy in Berlin called on Germany to stop using espionage allegations for political purposes and to avoid defaming China.
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