Three suspected Chinese spies arrested in Germany
By Ido Vock
German authorities say they have arrested three people on suspicion of spying for China.
The main suspect, named as Thomas R, is accused of spying for the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS).
Prosecutors allege his network operated a front company which co-operated with German research organisations.
The accused are said to have collected sensitive information, including designs for an engine suitable for use on combat ships, to pass on to China.
German prosecutors allege Thomas R obtained “innovative technologies for military use” on behalf of an MSS employee. They allege he used a front company – run by the two other suspects, named as Herwig F and Ina F – which contacted people working in science and research.
A first project regarding the operation of high-performance marine engines for use on combat ships is alleged to have already been completed.
At the time of their arrest, the accused were allegedly in further negotiations on further projects that could be of use for China’s navy, prosecutors said.
The arrests took place in the western German states of Hesse and North-Rhine-Westphalia, they added.
