German authorities have detained a 37-year-old American citizen, identified as Martin D., on suspicion of attempting to share sensitive U.S. military information with Chinese intelligence agencies. Martin D., a former civilian contractor for the U.S. military in Germany, was arrested Thursday morning in Frankfurt by Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), following a warrant issued on October 30.
According to a statement from Germany’s Federal Prosecutor’s Office, Martin D. is suspected of contacting Chinese authorities earlier this year and offering classified information from his work as a contractor. His role involved working with American forces stationed in Hessen, central Germany, where he allegedly gathered confidential data on U.S. military operations.
Authorities believe Martin D. reached out to Chinese intelligence operatives, expressing his willingness to act as an agent. In response, German counterintelligence launched an investigation, led by the BKA, while German intelligence agency BfV monitored the suspect for potential national security threats. A search of his residence was conducted, though authorities have not disclosed whether any sensitive materials were found.
Martin D. was set to appear before a judge at the German Federal Court of Justice, who would formally review the charges and determine whether he should remain in pre-trial detention.
This arrest comes amid heightened concerns in Western nations over espionage activities by foreign powers, particularly China and Russia. Germany has faced several espionage cases this year, with arrests involving individuals accused of passing sensitive military or technological information to foreign entities. Recent cases include the detention of three Germans in April for allegedly providing military technology information to Chinese intelligence, and the arrest of a Chinese national in October linked to surveillance of military-linked cargo at Leipzig/Halle Airport.
If found guilty, Martin D. faces potential prison sentences under German laws against espionage and unauthorized intelligence work, which carry severe penalties.