Far-right party aide detained in China spy investigation: Germany spying
Prosecutors disclosed that Jian G had been employed since 2019 by “a member of the European Parliament,” refraining from explicitly naming Maximilian Krah, who stands as the lead candidate for AfD in the upcoming European Elections scheduled from June 6th to 9th across the EU’s 27 member states. The BBC has sought Mr. Krah’s input on the matter.
Jian G is scheduled to appear before an investigating judge later on Tuesday.
This detention transpires just a day following the arrest of two men and a woman under suspicion of espionage for China. They allegedly procured information within Germany concerning military technology for China. Authorities have clarified that this latest case is not believed to be connected to the prior arrests.
The principal suspect in the earlier case is purported to have operated a front company, collaborating with German research organizations while engaging in espionage for the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS).
Thomas R, identified as the main figure in that case, is accused of acquiring “innovative technologies for military use” on behalf of an MSS agent.
This development occurs against the backdrop of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s recent return from a significant visit to Beijing, where he engaged in discussions with President Xi Jinping on various matters, including Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The intricate web of espionage allegations underscores heightened concerns surrounding national security and international relations, particularly within the context of emerging technological advancements and geopolitical tensions.