German authorities have charged three individuals—Dieter S., Alexander J., and Alex D.—with espionage, alleging they acted as agents for the Russian secret service.
The Federal Prosecutor’s Office accuses them of compromising national security by photographing military installations and engaging in sabotage operations.
Allegations of Sabotage and Espionage
Dieter S. was arrested by the Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt or BKA) alongside Alexander J. on espionage charges. In late October 2024, Dieter S. was also charged with being a fighter for an armed unit of the Donetsk People’s Republic (DPR).
Prosecutors allege that from October 2023, Dieter S. communicated with a Russian secret service member, discussing potential sabotage actions in Germany aimed at undermining German military support to Ukraine.
Targeting Military Infrastructure
The accused reportedly planned explosive and arson attacks on military infrastructure and industrial sites, including railway lines used for transporting military goods.
Dieter S. allegedly gathered information on potential targets in Bavaria, such as U.S. military facilities, a loading station in Upper Palatinate, and a tool manufacturing company. Alexander J. and Alex D. are said to have assisted in these efforts from March 2024 onwards.
Recent Espionage Cases in Germany
This case is part of a series of espionage-related arrests in Germany. The Federal Prosecutor’s Office recently charged a Turkish citizen, Mehmet K., on suspicion of working for the Turkish secret service.
In early November 2024, a U.S. national, Martin D., was arrested for allegedly offering sensitive U.S. military information to Chinese government agencies. Additionally, a Chinese citizen, Yaqi X., was arrested for transmitting information to a Chinese intelligence service employee.
These incidents highlight ongoing concerns about foreign espionage activities within Germany, prompting increased vigilance and legal action by German authorities.