German Police Arrest Alleged Far-Right Militants in Neo-Nazi Plot
On Tuesday, German authorities apprehended eight individuals linked to a far-right militant organization that is suspected of attempting to orchestrate a neo-Nazi takeover in eastern Germany. More than 450 law enforcement personnel conducted coordinated raids across various properties in the state of Saxony, as well as in Poland, where the alleged ringleader of the extremist group was captured, as stated by Germany’s federal prosecutor.
The suspects, some of whom are minors, are believed to be affiliated with a group known as the Sächsische Separatisten, or Saxon Separatists. This group, comprising approximately 15 to 20 members, is characterized by its racist, antisemitic, and, in some instances, apocalyptic ideologies, according to prosecutors. The prosecutor’s statement elaborated, saying, “Its members are united in a profound rejection of the liberal democratic order and believe that Germany is nearing ‘collapse.’
According to authorities, the group was plotting to seize control in Saxony and potentially expand their influence to other eastern German states with the intention of establishing governmental and societal structures reminiscent of National Socialism. “Even ethnic cleansing was part of their inhuman plans,” remarked Germany’s Justice Minister Marco Buschmann.
Buschmann emphasized in his statement that these arrests serve as a stark reminder that the German constitutional state and the principles of a free and democratic order are “under threat from many sides.”
Related
- German far-right party criticized over report of extremist meeting
- Is Germany’s government taking the rise of the far right seriously enough?
The Saxon Separatists were established in 2020 and had been engaged in preparations to violently overthrow the government, according to prosecutors. Reports indicate that members of the group, including those who have been arrested, participated in paramilitary training while equipped with combat gear and sought to acquire military equipment such as gas masks and bulletproof vests.
Germany has issued warnings for several years regarding the escalating threat posed by far-right extremists and has frequently taken action against such organizations. In 2022, individuals associated with the Reichsbürger movement, or “Reich Citizens,” attempted to storm the parliament building in Berlin with plans to detain lawmakers, according to prosecutors. The alleged masterminds of this extremist plot—an event that shocked the nation—began their trial in May of this year. This trial involves over two dozen suspects and 260 witnesses and is anticipated to extend well into 2025.
