A staff member of AfD's European Spitzenkandidat Maximilian Krah was arrested on 23 April 2024 under suspicion of espionage for China, allegedly passing information from the EU Parliament to Chinese intelligence.

On 23 April 2024, German authorities arrested a staff member of AfD's European Spitzenkandidat Maximilian Krah on suspicion of espionage for China. The accused is alleged to have passed sensitive information from the EU Parliament to Chinese intelligence services. This comes amid heightened scrutiny and criticism of the AfD party, which positions itself as a defender of German interests, raising questions about internal party security and loyalty. Krah admitted to previously visiting China frequently and having contacts there, but denied any espionage involvement. The party leadership summoned Krah for questioning due to the serious allegations and growing political pressure ahead of the European elections. Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser described the espionage allegations as "extremely serious." Political analysts warn that this incident damages the party's credibility and poses a threat to German and European security. The AfD faces internal tensions and calls for clarifications as suspicions also swirl about possible links to Russian influence and purchasing loyalty. The situation remains fluid with potential further revelations anticipated.