A Canadian woman of Chinese origin who was working as an intern at NATO’s military headquarters in Belgium has been arrested on suspicion of espionage, Belgian federal prosecutors confirmed.
Authorities allege that the woman was spying on behalf of a third country and was also involved in a criminal organisation. Investigators have not identified the country she allegedly worked for.
The case has raised security concerns within the alliance as Belgian authorities investigate whether sensitive information may have been targeted.
Intern Worked at NATO’s Supreme Military Headquarters
According to Belgian prosecutors, the suspect was an intern at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) in Mons, Belgium.
SHAPE serves as NATO’s principal military command centre. It oversees the planning and execution of military operations involving the alliance’s member countries.
The investigation reportedly began after SHAPE’s internal security services detected suspicious activity and alerted Belgian intelligence authorities.
Home and Workplace Searched
Belgian investigators searched the woman’s residence and workplace at SHAPE before arresting her on Friday.
Authorities have not released her identity or provided details about the alleged espionage activities. Prosecutors said the investigation remains ongoing and declined to disclose additional information.
The lack of details means it remains unclear what information the suspect allegedly accessed or whether any classified material was transferred.
NATO Says Military Operations Continue Normally
A SHAPE spokesperson said the investigation has not affected NATO’s military operations or readiness.
The alliance has not indicated that its command structures, operational planning or ongoing missions have been compromised.
Officials said SHAPE continues to perform its responsibilities while Belgian authorities investigate the allegations.
Belgian Authorities Continue Investigation
Investigators are examining the suspect’s alleged contacts, activities and possible links to a foreign intelligence operation.
The case highlights the security challenges faced by NATO and other international organisations as governments increasingly focus on espionage threats and attempts to obtain sensitive military information.
Belgian authorities are expected to provide further information if the investigation leads to additional charges or court proceedings.
For now, the allegations remain under investigation, and no details have been publicly established about the extent of any potential security breach at NATO headquarters.
