A former aide to a lawmaker from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) received a prison sentence of four years and nine months on March 12, 2024, after being convicted of espionage for Chinese intelligence. The individual, identified as Jian G in compliance with German privacy laws, worked for AfD politician Maximilian Krah from 2019 until 2024 during Krah’s term in the European Parliament.
The Dresden Higher Regional Court found Jian G guilty of collecting intelligence and confidential documents, which he subsequently passed on to Chinese contacts. In addition to spying on leading AfD lawmakers, he also gathered information on Chinese dissidents. Krah, who now serves in the German parliament, expressed no surprise regarding the conviction. “I took the necessary steps immediately after the arrest and significantly increased security in my office,” Krah stated, portraying himself as a “victim” of the situation.
Jian G has consistently denied the allegations, asserting, “I did not work for a Chinese secret service, and I am innocent.” His lawyer sought an acquittal, citing insufficient evidence, while prosecutors had aimed for a prison sentence of seven and a half years.
A co-defendant, Yaqi X, received a suspended sentence of one year and nine months. Yaqi worked for a logistics service provider at Leipzig Airport and is said to have provided Jian G with data regarding flights, freight, and passengers, particularly concerning the transport of defense goods. She admitted to passing on information, believing that Jian G was working to foster relations between China and Germany in his role at the European Parliament. However, she claimed to have been unaware of his activities as an agent for Chinese intelligence.
Separate Investigation into Maximilian Krah
Krah, a controversial figure even within the AfD, is currently under a separate investigation for allegations of bribery linked to China and money laundering during his time in the European Parliament. He has categorically rejected these claims. Earlier in March 2024, German police raided his offices following a vote to lift his parliamentary immunity.
Krah served as the AfD’s top candidate in the European Parliament elections held in 2023, a campaign marred by scandal. His party expelled him from its delegation to the European Parliament after he made inflammatory remarks defending members of the Nazi SS paramilitary during an interview with an Italian newspaper. Despite this, Krah was elected to the Bundestag earlier this year.
The case highlights serious concerns regarding espionage and foreign influence within European political institutions, particularly as tensions between China and Western democracies continue to escalate. As investigations unfold, the implications for Krah, the AfD, and broader European political dynamics remain to be seen.
