Former German spy chief August Hanning was arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of attempted treason, marking one of Germany’s most significant intelligence scandals since the Cold War. Prosecutors allege he paid for classified documents and used them to conduct analyses for a foreign intelligence agency, although they did not specify which agency or confirm if the analyses were delivered to the intended recipient.
This unprecedented arrest could jeopardise Germany’s intelligence relations with its allies, according to a senior security lawmaker. The prosecutor’s office stated, “Hanning is strongly suspected of treasonous espionage and obtaining state secrets.”
Investigators are exploring a potential link to Azerbaijan, with reports suggesting Hanning had communicated with an agent from the country. The federal prosecutor’s office declined to comment further.
Hanning, who headed Germany’s foreign intelligence service, the BND, from 1998 to 2005, is accused of agreeing to receive confidential intelligence from a former office manager, identified as Manfred D., in exchange for payment. Manfred D. was also arrested on Tuesday, and both are set to appear before a judge at the Federal Court of Justice.
Prosecutors suspect Manfred D. supplied about 2,000 documents over the years, including classified material and intelligence briefings meant for senior officials. These documents reportedly covered sensitive topics such as the Iranian nuclear programme and Russian military activities, as well as secrets classified by allied intelligence agencies.
Hanning allegedly used these classified materials to prepare analyses for a foreign intelligence officer and shared political information with a representative of that agency. Reports suggest the investigation does not involve Russia.
Security expert Roderich Kiesewetter expressed concerns that this case could harm trust between Germany and its intelligence partners. BND President Martin Jaeger stated that they have initiated thorough internal investigations, emphasising, “There can be no compromises on internal security.”
Hanning’s arrest adds to a troubling history of espionage scandals in Germany, including the resignation of Chancellor Willy Brandt in 1974 following revelations about an East German spy in his inner circle. More recent scandals have further tested public confidence in the intelligence community.
