In a large-scale counter-terrorism operation in early December in several German states, Austria and Italy, 25 were arrested. Investigators also seized more than €420,000 in cash and precious metals.
Citizens of the Reich are people who do not recognize the Federal Republic of Germany and its democratic structures. Justice accuses at least 22 detainees of being members of a terrorist organization that wanted to overthrow the political system in Germany and planned a coup. Other suspects are considered supporters.
Citizens of the Empire
A former officer of a special branch of the German army arrested in Italy has launched a lawsuit against extradition to Germany. With the exception of one Russian woman, all suspects have German nationality. They claim that the German Reich (1871-1945) simply continues to exist. The movement has grown in membership. There are now 21,000 to 23,000 supporters, some of them violent.