According to the Federal Prosecutor’s Office and the Ministry of Justice, the arrested individuals are believed to be part of a right-wing extremist group. One of the suspects, a 14-year-old, is already in pre-trial detention under a warrant issued by the Federal Court of Justice. The remaining four are expected to appear before a judge later in the day.
Violence Against Refugees and Political Opponents Allegedly Planned
Investigators accuse the group of plotting and possibly carrying out violent attacks targeting asylum seekers and political opponents. Searches were conducted at 13 properties across Brandenburg, Hesse, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, as well as in Saxony and Thuringia. Authorities confiscated various pieces of evidence.
Four of the five teenagers are reportedly members of a group known as “Letzte Verteidigungswelle” (L.V.W.), classified by the Federal Prosecutor’s Office as a right-wing terrorist organization. The fifth suspect is considered a supporter.
Arson Attacks and Attack Plans Under Investigation
The suspects, along with others already in custody, are linked to several arson attacks. These include an attack on a cultural center in Altdöbern (Brandenburg), a failed arson attempt on an asylum shelter in Schmölln (Thuringia), and plans for a similar assault on a refugee center in Senftenberg (Brandenburg).
Right-Wing Chat Group Under Scrutiny
In a related investigation, police also intensified efforts against a far-right extremist chat group. Around 100 officers searched six locations in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The group, composed mainly of teenagers and young adults, is alleged to have circulated extremist content and incited criminal acts, according to state police.
Juvenile Suspects Deemed Criminally Responsible
Four of the five arrested suspects are under 18. Prosecutors stated that, despite their age, the individuals are considered criminally responsible under German law, meaning they could understand the illegality of their actions at the time of the alleged offenses. Due to their age, some of the suspects must appear before the judge accompanied by their parents.
Structure and Objectives of L.V.W.
The terrorist cell “Letzte Verteidigungswelle” is believed to consist of at least eight known members residing in various German states, including Saxony, Hesse, Brandenburg, Thuringia, and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The group reportedly used encrypted digital channels for communication and organization. Investigators estimate that up to 200 individuals sympathize with or identify with the group, most of whom have not yet been identified.
The group’s stated objective is to destabilize the Federal Republic through violent acts. According to prosecutors, its members see themselves as the last line of defense for the so-called “German nation.” Planned attacks include the use of incendiary and explosive devices targeting refugee shelters and facilities associated with leftist political movements.
Justice Minister Warns of Rising Youth Extremism
Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) expressed alarm at the arrests, stating, “It is deeply disturbing that members of this group appear to have been radicalized at such a young age.” She emphasized that the case is a stark warning. “Right-wing extremist violence has no age limit.” Hubig praised law enforcement agencies for their swift action and underscored the importance of prosecuting far-right terrorism with full legal force.
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