Germany’s top banker and five co-defendants were acquitted of criminal charges today over payments to executives during a high-profile 2000 telecom takeover battle.

German prosecutors have filed charges against six people in connection with the 2000 takeover of Germany’s mobile phone operator Mannesmann by Vodafone.

A lawyer in the inquiry into whether illegal payments were made in Vodafone's takeover of a German mobile firm, says charges are likely.

Charges are likely soon following an inquiry into whether illegal payments were made in the takeover of German mobile phone company Mannesmann by British rival Vodafone, a lawyer for a top union official who is under investigation said today.