Germany arrests 8 neo-Nazis over suspected terrorism plots

German authorities arrested eight suspected members of a right-wing extremist group during pre-dawn raids on Tuesday. The group, known as the “Saxonian Separatists,” is accused of planning terrorism activities and seeking to seize control in parts of Germany.

The raids were conducted in Saxony and Poland, with locations also searched in Austria, including Vienna.

Group’s ideology and objectives

Federal prosecutors described the group as having a membership of 15 to 20 individuals who promoted a racist, antisemitic, and apocalyptic ideology.

The group rejected Germany’s liberal democratic order and anticipated a “collapse” scenario, termed “Day X,” during which they planned to use armed force to gain control over parts of Saxony and other regions in eastern Germany.

Their ultimate goal was to create a Nazi-style state and carry out “ethnic cleansing.”

Arrested individuals and charges

The arrested individuals, all German nationals, include alleged ringleader Joern S., as well as Kurt H., Karl K., Kevin M., Hans-Georg P., Kevin R., Joerg S., and Norman T. Joerg S., 23, were detained in Poland. Kurt H. was noted to be associated with the youth wing of the far-right AfD party, “Junge Alternative,” where he served as treasurer.

Paramilitary training and equipment

Prosecutors revealed that the group engaged in paramilitary training, including urban warfare tactics, firearms handling, and patrolling exercises. They procured military equipment such as combat helmets, camouflage fatigues, gas masks, and bullet-proof vests.

More than 450 law enforcement officials participated in the operation, working in cooperation with the domestic intelligence service.

The arrests come amid heightened concerns over the rise of far-right extremism in Germany, particularly in former East German states.