Former German spy chief arrested for espionage and treason

Former German spy chief August Hanning has been arrested for espionage and treason, according to the German Federal Prosecutor’s Office. As chief of the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) from 1998 to 2005, Hanning was working as a private consultant prior to his arrest. Prosecutors allege that he obtained classified information and used it to create an analysis for a foreign intelligence agency, as well as maintaining contact with another foreign spying service.

The specific foreign powers involved have not been disclosed. Additionally, former BND employee Manfred D was arrested, accused of passing Hanning around 2,000 classified documents for monetary gain. Manfred D, who served as Hanning’s bureau chief until last year, faces charges of aiding and abetting attempted treason and treasonous espionage.

Hanning is set to appear in court on Wednesday, while Manfred D will appear on Tuesday. Investigators claim that Manfred D exploited his position to gain access to highly confidential information, which he then provided to Hanning in exchange for payment. Furthermore, Hanning is accused of having a close relationship with a representative of another foreign intelligence agency, sharing political information partially sourced from Manfred D’s materials for several years.