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Belgium semiconductor industrial espionage investigation

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2026-09-07 13:31 UTC → 2026-09-08 17:51 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Belgian authorities are investigating allegations of industrial espionage involving advanced semiconductor technology. A 52-year-old former senior researcher at BelGaN, a manufacturer of gallium nitride semiconductors, was detained at Brussels Airport while attempting to travel to Beijing. Prosecutors allege the suspect, who holds dual Belgian and Chinese nationality, misappropriated specialized intellectual property to benefit a Chinese company. This firm, which produces identical chips, was reportedly established shortly after his employment at BelGaN and received funding from a Chinese investment fund. The investigation follows the July 2024 bankruptcy of BelGaN and includes scrutiny of former managing director Alan Zhen Zhou. The suspect faces charges including industrial espionage, membership in a criminal organization, and misappropriation of company assets. While electronic equipment has been seized for analysis, a second suspect remains at large.

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