Former BND Chief August Hanning Arrested on Espionage Charges

August Hanning, who served as the head of Germany's BND foreign intelligence agency from 1998 to 2005, has been arrested on suspicion of espionage, according to reports from German media on Tuesday. Investigators allege that Hanning passed on state secrets and worked as an agent. An investigation by WDR, NDR, and the Süddeutsche Zeitung indicates that an informant provided Hanning with classified documents. The federal prosecutor is examining charges against Hanning that include alleged espionage against the state, disclosure of state secrets, attempted treason, and functioning as a secret service agent. Additionally, a longtime employee of the BND is reportedly facing charges of aiding and abetting attempted treason and espionage against the state.