German prosecutors announced on Monday that three German citizens have been detained under suspicion of collaborating with the Chinese secret service to transfer potentially military-useful technologies. The individuals in question are Herwig F. and Ina F., a married couple who operate a business in Dusseldorf, along with Thomas R., characterised by prosecutors as a liaison for an individual connected to China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS).
Through their company, the couple concluded a co-operation agreement with a German university, part of which involved preparing a study for a Chinese contractual partner on machine parts that can be used for the operation of powerful marine engines such as combat ships, the statement said.
The Chinese contract partner was the MSS employee from whom Thomas R. received his orders, it added.
The suspects also purchased a special laser from Germany on behalf of and with payment from the MSS and exported it to China without authorisation, according to the prosecutors.
Last week, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited China to advocate for fair market access for German companies, while also conveying European concerns regarding Beijing’s economic strategies and its stance on supporting Russia.
The Chinese embassy in Berlin did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
With Inputs From Reuters
