Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group Antifa Ost began their trial on Tuesday, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.
International terror listing and prosecution case
Earlier this month, the US government classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist group along with multiple additional left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.
German prosecutors state the group was behind attacks on locations in the country and neighboring Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a gathering spot for rightwing activists.
Certain individuals are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some with serious injuries.
Trial details and international connections
The trial involving six men and one woman is expected to run until July 2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G. and Paul M, are additionally accused for attacks in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, coinciding with an annual event known as the “day of honor” that attracts rightwing extremists from across Europe.
Separately, a different German individual, Maja T, is currently on trial in Hungary for multiple charges of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the identical event in 2023.
Historical background and organizational structure
The former East Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.
Prosecutors describe Johann G. as a senior figure within the organization, tasked with organizing violent acts and recruiting accomplices.
Together with Paul M, he is accused of organizing instruction courses where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and rehearsed attacks. In storage facilities managed by the suspect, the network allegedly accumulated hammers, irritant sprays, disguises and mobile phones.
Prior legal cases and global responses
Another militant 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 presumed far-right targets.
The US designation renders organization affiliates ineligible to enter the US, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the American economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.
Germany's far-right AfD party welcomed the US decision and urged the German administration to follow suit. However, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “acknowledged” of the US designation.
“The threat from the organization has substantially diminished lately. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have either received convictions or are in custody.”
Government spokesperson
