German authorities investigate suspected espionage after drones were spotted over industrial sites in northern Germany. Covestro and Holcim assist in the probe amid concerns of potential sabotage linked to Russia.
Bollywood Fever: German chemicals group Covestro and Swiss cement maker Holcim have announced their involvement in assisting Germany’s investigation into suspected espionage activities after drones were spotted flying over industrial sites in northern Germany.
The probe, initiated by German prosecutors, is focused on repeated drone flights over critical infrastructure, which have raised concerns about potential spying for sabotage purposes.
The German military’s Territorial Command, which oversees domestic military bases, confirmed that it had responded to a police request to provide radar data related to the suspicious drone activities.
Covestro and Holcim are part of a larger group of chemical, energy, and logistics companies operating in the ChemCoast Park industrial area in Brunsbuettel, located in the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein.
In an email to Reuters, Covestro stated, “At the request of the authorities, we are providing support in their investigations.” Holcim, meanwhile, confirmed it was maintaining close communication with the authorities and had not taken any additional measures.
Wintershall Dea, a German oil and gas company with operations in Brunsbuettel, reported that it had not detected any drone flights over its extraction sites but was closely monitoring the situation.
The investigation has sparked significant concern, especially given Germany’s role as one of Ukraine’s largest suppliers of military aid since Russia’s invasion in 2022. While prosecutors have not provided further updates, and both criminal and state police have yet to comment, the gravity of the situation remains apparent.
On Thursday, Bild newspaper reported that state criminal police suspected the drones involved were likely Russian Orlan-10s, which have a range of 500-600 kilometers (310-372 miles) and can fly at speeds exceeding 100 kph (62 mph).
Germany has been on heightened alert for sabotage activities, particularly in light of its military support for Ukraine. Earlier this month, authorities temporarily sealed off a military base near Cologne due to suspicions of contaminated tap water, which later proved to be unfounded. In April, two German-Russian nationals were arrested for allegedly plotting sabotage attacks aimed at undermining Germany’s military support for Ukraine.
The investigation into these drone flights is ongoing, and the situation continues to develop as authorities seek to determine the intent and origin of the espionage activities.
Also Read Other Articles, Kerry Washington and Tony Goldwyn Reunite at DNC for a Viral Kamala Harris Moment
Protests Erupt Across Indonesia as Public Demands Fair Election Rules Amid Political Tensions
Kiribati Suspends Diplomatic Visits Amid Election Process and Growing Ties with China