Former BND head August Hanning and office manager Manfred D. arrested on suspicion of trading classified info for foreign intelligence analysis. Prosecutors allege Hanning exchanged 2000 documents with D. over five years, including sensitive material on Iranian nuclear program and Russian military.
Hanning, 80, served as BND head from 1998-2005. D. worked as BND office manager until 2026, giving him access to classified info. Both face charges of espionage, treason, and attempted treason. Prosecutors say Hanning used documents to prepare analysis for foreign service and shared political info with another agency.
The case could strain Germany's intelligence relationships with allies. BND says it launched internal investigations. Past scandals include 1974 resignation of West German chancellor over East German spy and 1990 conviction of Stasi spy. Current case raises concerns about trust in German intelligence services.
Case does not involve Russia. Prosecutors did not identify foreign intelligence service. Hanning and D. to appear before judge. BND and chancellery declined to comment.