German National Arrested for Suspected Espionage for China
Suspect Linked to AfD MEP Maximilian Krah
Ongoing Spying Allegations Continue to Shadow AfD
Dresden, February 6, 2023 - German authorities have arrested a German national identified as Jian G on suspicion of spying for the Chinese government. The arrest comes amid ongoing investigations into espionage activities involving the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
The suspect allegedly worked as an aide to AfD MEP Maximilian Krah, who is also the party's Spitzenkandidat (lead candidate) for the upcoming European Parliament elections. According to law enforcement officials, the individual is accused of passing sensitive EU-related information to Chinese intelligence services.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the AfD, which has been embroiled in a string of controversies related to espionage and foreign interference. The party's critics have accused it of fostering close ties to Russia and China, and of undermining German national security.
In response to the arrest, the European Parliament has suspended the accreditation of the AfD employee pending further investigation. The EU institution is also reviewing its security protocols and considering stricter measures to protect against foreign espionage.
The spying allegations against the AfD have cast a long shadow over the party, which is already facing mounting pressure over its stance on Russia's war in Ukraine. The arrests and investigations are likely to further damage the party's reputation and electoral prospects.
Komentar