May 22, 2026
World
World
MECCA, May 22 — More than one million Muslims are converging on Mecca for the haj pilgrimage, as regional tensions in the Middle East and a fragile ceasefire cast a shadow over the event.
BERLIN, May 20 — German authorities have arrested a married couple on suspicion of spying for China, alleging that they sought sensitive information related to advanced technologies with potential military applications.
The pair, identified in part as German nationals Xuejun C. and Hua S., were detained in Munich, according to the federal prosecution service, which said they are believed to have been working for a Chinese intelligence agency. Their homes and workplaces were also searched as part of the investigation.
Prosecutors allege the couple built contacts with academics at German universities and research institutions, particularly in aerospace engineering, computer science and artificial intelligence.
They are also accused of posing as interpreters or employees of an automotive company to gain access to researchers. Some academics were allegedly invited to China under the guise of paid civilian lectures, but instead spoke to staff from state-owned defence firms.
Authorities said further operations were being carried out involving around 10 additional individuals, who are not suspects but may serve as witnesses, across Berlin, Munich and other locations. — AFP
