Christina Block, heiress to a German steakhouse chain, is on trial in Hamburg over allegations she ordered the abduction of her two children from Denmark. The case has also drawn in former intelligence chief August Hanning, who has been arrested on separate espionage charges.
01Summary
- 01Christina Block, 53, is on trial in Hamburg with six others over allegations she ordered the abduction of her children during New Year 2023-24.
- 02Prosecutors say two children, then aged 10 and 13, were taken from their father Stephan Hensel in Denmark, beaten, and later held in Baden-Württemberg until 2 January 2024.
- 03Block, her family lawyer Andreas Costard and an Israeli citizen named Jonathan G face charges including abduction of minors, grievous bodily harm and unlawful detention.
- 04Jonathan G has admitted involvement, but told the court he believed he was taking part in a rescue operation.
- 05Former German intelligence chief August Hanning, now 80, has been arrested on separate treason and espionage charges after investigators found evidence during searches linked to the case.
02Why it matters
The case combines a high-profile custody fight with allegations of violent abduction and possible intelligence links, making it one of Germany's most closely watched trials. It has also led to a separate espionage probe involving a former spy chief.
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