Former German spy chief arrested for espionage and treason

Agents arrested August Hanning (pictured from 2015) at his home on Tuesday

Former German spy chief August Hanning has been arrested on suspicion of espionage, treason and obtaining classified information for a foreign power, the German Federal Prosecutor's Office says.

Prosecutors allege that he used classified intelligence to "draft an analysis" for one foreign intelligence service and maintained contact with another foreign spying service. Investigators have not disclosed which foreign powers were involved.

Manfred D, who was Hanning's bureau chief and remained in the BND until this year, is charged with aiding and abetting attempted treason and treasonous espionage.

Prosecutors say Manfred D, who also served as the chief of staff for Hanning's successors between 2012 and 2026, used his role to gain access to highly confidential information which he then passed on to Hanning "in exchange for remuneration".

"On one occasion, Hanning used classified intelligence ... to draft an analysis for an officer of a foreign intelligence service," prosecutors said, noting it was not clear if "the material reached the intended recipient".

Local media say Hanning's alleged possession of intelligence documents came to light during a separate case relating to German steakhouse heiress Christina Block.

State criminal police officers reportedly discovered an electronic data storage device containing sensitive information including recent BND documents.

Prosecutors alleged Carsten L shared intelligence about the war in Ukraine and the Wagner mercenary group and received roughly €400,000 ($450,000; £340,000). His trial is ongoing.

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