Head of German spy agency to be replaced in July
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}FILE - In this March 18, 2016 file photo head of the Bundesnachrichtendienst, or BND, Gerhard Schindler, speaks in Berlin, Germany. Schindler, who has led the BND since 2012 will step down July 1, Merkel's office said Wednesday, April 27, 2016. (Bernd von Jutrczenka/dpa via AP, file) (The Associated Press)
Chancellor Angela Merkel's office says the head of Germany's spy agency is stepping down and will be replaced by a Finance Ministry department head.
Gerhard Schindler, who has led the Bundesnachrichtendienst, or BND, since 2012 will step down July 1, Merkel's office said Wednesday. The Finance Ministry's Bruno Kahl has been selected to replace him.
Merkel's office did not give a reason for the change, but says it comes among upcoming "major challenges that affect all areas of work" including new security threats, the agency's move of most operations to Berlin, and an overall restructuring.