Espionage scandal involving ex-BND chief: second arrest over suspected treason

By Patrick Drews & Anna Kirchheim

Published on 07/10/2026 - 16:13 GMT+2

One of the biggest espionage scandals in Germany's history has seen a second arrest. Following the detention of former BND chief August Hanning, 80, his long-standing confidant Manfred D., 64, has now also been taken into custody. Federal prosecutors accuse both men of having used state secrets over many years to support private consulting activities and foreign interests, specifically Azerbaijan. Manfred D. is already being held in pre-trial detention, while Hanning is being brought before an investigating judge.

What has happened?

Police have arrested a second man in connection with the espionage case. According to reports, he is called Manfred D. and previously served as office manager to former intelligence chief August Hanning. The two men have known each other since the late 1990s and worked closely together for many years at the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) and later at the Interior Ministry.

What exactly are the allegations? Prosecutors say Manfred D. obtained classified documents from the intelligence service and passed them on to his former boss Hanning, allegedly in return for payment. The arrangement is believed to have been in place since 2010. The aim: former BND head Hanning is said to have used the confidential information to prepare, among other things, an analysis for Azerbaijan and to earn private income as a consultant.

Months of monitoring by investigators

Senior public prosecutor Dr Ines Peterson said: "Presumably in spring 2010, the defendants agreed that Manfred D. would continuously obtain valuable intelligence from the Federal Intelligence Service for the accused Hanning in return for payment." Hanning is alleged to have used the material for private consulting work. To track the men, investigators bugged Manfred D.'s rooms and monitored him for months.

Hanning is under investigation for serious offences including treason and espionage. His alleged accomplice, Manfred D., has been charged with aiding and abetting and is already in custody on remand.