Germany: Ex-spy chief arrested for espionage — reports

August Hanning has reportedly been arrested over alleged spying and acting as a secret service agentImage: Michael Kappeler/dpa/picture allianceAdvertisementInvestigators have arrested the former head of Germany's BND foreign intelligence agency, August Hanning, on suspicion of espionage, German media reported Tuesday.

Hanning served as the agency's chief between 1998 and 2005.

According to an investigation by WDR, NDR and the Süddeutsche Zeitung newspaper, an informant is said to have provided Hanning with classified documents in exchange for money.

The federal prosecutor is investigating Hanning over charges including alleged espionage against the state, disclosure of state secrets, attempted treason, and working as a secret service agent, the news outlets reported. 

The reports added that a former high-ranking employee of the BND was also arrested on suspicion of aiding and abetting attempted treason and espionage against the state.

Police arrested Hanning early Tuesday at his home in Nordwalde near the western German city of Münster, according to information from WDR, NDR and the Süddeutsche Zeitung.

His alleged accomplice, who was identified only as Manfred D. in line with Germany's privacy laws, was taken into custody in Bavaria, the report said. D. served as Hanning's chief of staff during his tenure as spy chief.