France Cracks Down: Chinese Nationals Arrested for Espionage

French authorities have arrested four individuals, including two Chinese nationals, suspected of spying. The arrests followed an investigation into attempts to capture Starlink satellite data for China. Espionage tensions between China and Western countries continue to escalate, with both sides leveling accusations of cyber espionage.

French authorities have detained four individuals, including two Chinese nationals, suspected of espionage activities, the Paris public prosecutor's office announced on Wednesday. The arrests are part of a judicial investigation into allegations that the suspects aimed to capture and transmit vital satellite data to China.

The two Chinese nationals allegedly entered France with plans to intercept data from the Starlink network, targeting entities vital to national security, such as military operations. This incident marks another point of tension in ongoing espionage disputes between China and Western nations, amid rising cyber concerns.

Public alarm was triggered by the installation of a sizable satellite dish in a Gironde Airbnb, linked to an internet disruption. Subsequent police action uncovered satellite data interception equipment, leading to the arrest of the suspects. The judicial inquiry will examine charges of illegal data disclosure and organized theft from automated systems.

(With inputs from agencies.)