In April 2024, officers of the Federal Criminal Office arrested the suspects in Duesseldorf (North Rhine-Westphalia) i Bad Homburg (Hesse). Their homes and workplaces were also searched. Investigators indicate that at the time of their arrest, the suspects were conducting negotiations research and development projectsthat could contribute to strengthening the Chinese navy – according to a statement from the prosecutor's office.
According to her, the prime suspect he has been working as an agent since 2017 one of the employees of the Ministry of Security Chin. Using the help of a company owned by two alleged partners (marriages), obtained information about innovative technologiesthat could be used for military purposes. The spouses established contact through the company with companies and scientific institutions – stated in the announcement.
The prosecutor's office reported that from February 2017 to April 2024, the suspects they collected information regularlywhich could be useful in particular to expand China's maritime combat power. This included arrangements regarding, among others: boat engines, propulsion systems for armored vehicles and drones. The prime suspect passed this information on to a Chinese employee.
The suspects are currently located in custody.
Head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs German Nancy Faeser considered the arrest of the spies a success. “In the current situation regarding innovative technologies from Germany that can be used for military purposes, this area is particularly sensitive“- said the minister.