Suspected Attempted Kidnapping of Block Kids Linked to Hanning: Investigative Report

Examination Widens in Contentious Child Custody Case Involving High-Ranking Official

September 16, 2025

The inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the return of two children to their father in Denmark is gaining momentum, revealing a pattern of alleged actions stretching back over several years. The case centers on christina Block, a Hamburg-based entrepreneur, and her protracted battle for custody of her four children with her former spouse, Stephan Hensel.

Previous Kidnapping Attempt Alleged

Authorities are now investigating a reported attempt to abduct the children in November 2022, approximately a year before the children’s return to Denmark on New Year’s Eve 2023/2024. Public prosecutors in Hamburg are focusing their attention on August Hanning, a former President of the Federal Intelligence Service, and a retired official from the Hamburg State Criminal Police Office.

The investigation suggests that Hanning may have commissioned a security company allegedly linked to Block, with payments exceeding 100,000 euros. However, Hanning’s legal counsel vehemently denies these claims, labeling them as unfounded accusations.

Searches Conducted in Multiple Countries

On Tuesday, German and Swiss authorities collaborated on a series of searches, examining 13 locations across both nations. these included the homes and businesses of the accused, and also properties belonging to individuals not currently considered suspects. The scope of the searches extended to several German states – Hamburg,Berlin,North Rhine-Westphalia,and Brandenburg – and also locations in Switzerland.

Ongoing Kidnapping Trial and Custody Battle

Currently, a trial related to the New Year’s Eve 2023/2024 incident is underway at the Hamburg Regional Court, with Block accused of orchestrating the children’s return. She maintains her innocence. Six co-defendants, including her partner, Gerhard Delling, are also involved in the proceedings, with all maintaining their innocence. Hanning and the retired police official are not currently among those on trial.

The years-long custody dispute began in August 2021, when Hensel allegedly failed to return the children to their mother following a weekend visit, prompting legal action.

Alleged Involvement of Israeli Security Firm

According to reports, on New Year’s Eve 2023/2024, the children, then aged ten and thirteen, were purportedly taken by personnel from an Israeli security company and transported to Germany. This action followed a court order mandating their return to their father in Denmark after a few days.

Father’s Report Preceded Attempted Abduction

Prosecutors revealed that an attempt was made to kidnap the children on November 9, 2022. The plan allegedly involved intercepting the children on their way to school in Southern Denmark, creating a diversion, and enabling Block to take them. the attempt was thwarted when Hensel noticed suspicious individuals near his property and alerted the police.While Danish authorities initially investigated the matter, the case was eventually closed. Though, the failure of the Danish police to act against Hanning and the retired official has led to the current investigation in Hamburg.

Key Figure	Role	Allegation
Christina Block	Hamburg Entrepreneur	ordering the children’s return; involvement in attempted kidnapping.
August Hanning	Former Intelligence Chief	commissioning security firm for potential childcare arrangements.
Stephan Hensel	Father	Reporting suspicious activity; Custody dispute with Christina Block.

Did You No? International child abduction cases are increasingly complex,often involving multiple jurisdictions and requiring extensive cooperation between law enforcement agencies.

Pro tip: When facing a cross-border custody dispute, seeking legal counsel specializing in international family law is crucial.

International Child Abduction: A Growing Concern

the case highlights the growing issue of international child abduction, which is estimated to involve thousands of children each year. The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, established in 1980, aims to provide a legal framework for resolving these cases, promoting the prompt return of children wrongfully removed or retained across international borders. However, the effectiveness of the Convention can be hampered by complexities in its implementation and variations in national laws.

Recent data from the U.S. State Department indicates a slight increase in reported international parental child abduction cases in recent years, possibly linked to greater awareness and improved reporting mechanisms. Learn more about international child abduction.

Frequently asked Questions

• What is international child abduction? It refers to the unlawful removal of a child from their country of habitual residence by a parent or other family member.
• What is the Hague Convention? It’s an international treaty designed to facilitate the return of children wrongfully removed or retained across international borders.
• What is the role of law enforcement in kidnapping cases? Law enforcement investigates alleged crimes, gathers evidence, and works to locate missing children.
• What are the potential consequences of international parental child abduction? Consequences can include criminal charges, loss of custody rights, and meaningful emotional trauma for the child.
• How can parents protect themselves from international child abduction? Legal counsel specializing in international family law can provide guidance and preventive measures.

What are your thoughts on this developing situation? Share your comments below and join the discussion!

What specific details from Hanning’s criminal history raise concerns about his potential involvement in the recent attempted kidnappings?

The Incident & initial Reports

On September 15th, 2025, authorities in the Block district reported a series of concerning incidents involving attempted abductions of children. Initial reports indicated three separate events within a 48-hour period, all sharing unsettling similarities. Witnesses described a dark-colored van and a lone individual attempting to lure children with offers of candy or assistance.The incidents sparked immediate fear and a heightened police presence throughout the Block community. early investigations quickly focused on potential connections to known offenders, and a name surfaced repeatedly: Arthur Hanning.

Arthur Hanning: A Person of Interest

Arthur hanning, a recently released convict with a history of predatory behavior, has become the primary person of interest in the attempted kidnappings. Hanning served a seven-year sentence for aggravated assault and stalking, offenses that involved targeting young individuals. He was released on parole just three weeks prior to the Block incidents.

* Criminal History: Hanning’s past offenses demonstrate a pattern of fixating on vulnerable individuals. Court records reveal a history of obsessive behavior and attempts to establish inappropriate relationships with minors.

* Parole Conditions: Hanning’s parole conditions included mandatory check-ins with a parole officer, restrictions on travel, and a prohibition from being near schools or parks were children congregate. Authorities are currently investigating whether Hanning violated any of these conditions.

* Vehicle Description: The vehicle described by witnesses – a dark-colored,late-model van – matches a vehicle previously owned and operated by Hanning,though ownership records are currently under review to confirm if he still possesses it.

evidence Linking Hanning to the Block Incidents

While direct evidence remains elusive, several factors strongly suggest Hanning’s involvement.

1. Proximity: Hanning’s registered address is located less than five miles from the Block district, placing him within easy reach of the incident locations.
2. Surveillance Footage: Security camera footage from a local convenience store captured a man resembling Hanning purchasing large quantities of candy on the day of the first reported incident. The time and location align with the timeline of the attempted abduction.
3. Witness Testimony: One witness, a parent who intervened during an attempted luring, provided a detailed description of the suspect that closely matches Hanning’s physical characteristics.
4. Digital Footprint: A preliminary analysis of Hanning’s online activity revealed searches related to child safety alerts and maps of the Block district.

Police Response & Community Safety Measures

The Block Police Department has launched a full-scale investigation, dedicating significant resources to apprehending the suspect and ensuring the safety of local children.

* Increased Patrols: Uniformed and plainclothes officers have increased patrols in the Block district, particularly near schools, parks, and bus stops.

* Community Meetings: Police officials have held community meetings to address residents’ concerns and provide safety tips.

* Amber Alert Considerations: While the incidents did not meet the strict criteria for an Amber Alert (as no child was actually abducted), authorities are prepared to issue an alert if the situation escalates.

* Neighborhood Watch Programs: Local authorities are encouraging residents to participate in or establish Neighborhood Watch programs to enhance community vigilance.

Expert Analysis: Profiling the Suspect

Dr. Eleanor Vance,a forensic psychologist specializing in predatory behavior,offered insights into the potential motivations and tactics of the suspect. “Individuals like Hanning frequently enough operate with a carefully constructed facade of normalcy. They may attempt to gain trust by appearing friendly or helpful before attempting to isolate a child. The use of candy or offers of assistance is a common tactic to lower a child’s guard.” Dr. Vance emphasized the importance of educating children about stranger danger and encouraging them to report any suspicious activity to a trusted adult.

Ongoing Investigation & Future Steps

The investigation remains active and ongoing.Authorities are currently:

* executing a search warrant at Hanning’s residence.

* Interviewing hanning’s parole officer and associates.

* Analyzing forensic evidence collected from the incident locations.

* Canvassing the Block district for additional witnesses and surveillance footage.

The block Police Department is urging anyone with facts related to these incidents to come forward. A dedicated tip line has been established at 555-SAFE (555-7233).The safety of the community remains the top priority, and authorities are committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice.