A group of seven people accused of being the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on this week, facing charges for attacks targeting far-right activists that resulted in the nickname “Hammer Gang”.
International terror listing and prosecution case
Earlier this month, the US government designated the organization as a terrorist organization together with multiple additional left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.
Authorities in Germany claim the network was responsible for attacks on locations in the country and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose establishment reportedly served as a meeting point for rightwing activists.
Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several with serious injuries.
Court proceedings and international connections
Court proceedings involving six men and one woman is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G. and Paul M, also face charges for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honor” that attracts far-right participants from throughout the continent.
Separately, another German activist, Maja T, is facing trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted violent acts against neo-Nazis prior to the identical event in that year.
Historical background and organizational structure
Eastern Germany has long been a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.
Authorities characterize Johann G as a senior figure within the organization, responsible for organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.
Together with Paul M., he is accused of organizing instruction courses where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities managed by Paul M, the network allegedly accumulated hammers, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.
Previous convictions and international reactions
A different activist formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.
The US designation makes group members ineligible to enter the United States, freezes any assets they may have within the American economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.
The German right-wing Alternative for Germany welcomed the US decision and called on the German administration to take similar action. However, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “acknowledged” of the US designation.
“The danger posed by the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and particularly violent members have already been convicted or are in custody.”
Interior ministry spokesperson
