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Germany Arrests Three Individuals Suspected of Sharing Technology with China
Three Germans arrested for allegedly sharing technology with China's secret service. Concerns raised about Chinese espionage in business, industry, and science. Chinese embassy denies accusations and calls for an end to political manipulation.
In a significant development, German authorities have arrested three individuals on suspicion of collaborating with the Chinese secret service to provide technology that could potentially be used for military purposes, specifically to bolster China's navy. The arrests come on the heels of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's recent visit to China, where he raised concerns about intellectual property theft and fair market access, as well as Russia's wartime economy.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has emphasised the government's vigilance in monitoring the threat posed by Chinese espionage in various sectors, including business, industry, and science. Faeser stated, "We look very closely at these risks and threats and have clearly warned and raised awareness about them so that protective measures are increased everywhere."
The German Justice Minister, Marco Buschmann, revealed that the arrested individuals were engaged in negotiations regarding research projects that could significantly enhance China's maritime combat capabilities. The issue of German innovative technologies being used for military purposes is particularly sensitive, according to Buschmann.
The Chinese embassy in Berlin has vehemently denied the accusations, stating that Beijing firmly rejects any claims of spying activities in Germany. The embassy spokesperson called on Germany to refrain from exploiting the espionage accusation to manipulate China's image and defame the country.
The suspects have been identified as Herwig F. and Ina F., a married couple who own a company in Dusseldorf, and Thomas R., described as an agent for an unidentified employee of China's Ministry of State Security (MSS). Prosecutors revealed that the couple had entered into a cooperation agreement with a German university through their company, involving the preparation of a study on machine parts used in marine engines, potentially for warships, for the MSS employee.
Furthermore, the suspects allegedly purchased a specialised laser from Germany on behalf of the MSS and exported it to China without authorisation. The exact purpose of the laser has not been disclosed by the prosecutors.
The arrests were made based on information gathered by Germany's domestic intelligence agency. This incident follows the recent arrest of two Russian-German nationals on suspicion of spying for Russia. The individuals were accused of planning sabotage attacks to undermine Germany's military support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
In light of these developments, German authorities are intensifying their efforts to combat espionage and protect sensitive technologies. The government's focus on safeguarding intellectual property and maintaining fair market access remains a top priority.
Three Germans arrested for allegedly sharing technology with China's secret service
Concerns raised about Chinese espionage in business, industry, and science
Chinese embassy denies accusations and calls for an end to political manipulation
Source: REUTERS