Dresden – Authorities in Saxony have conducted raids targeting individuals associated with the “Reichsbürger” movement, a loosely organized group of individuals who reject the legitimacy of the Federal Republic of Germany.
The State Criminal Police Office of Saxony, acting on a warrant from the Dresden Public Prosecutor’s Office, searched eleven homes and properties in Marienberg, Olbernhau, Großrückerswalde (Erzgebirgskreis), and Dippoldiswalde (Sächsische Schweiz-Osterzgebirge).
Group Allegedly Planned “Homeland Security Companies”
Eight individuals are accused of being members of a terrorist organization linked to Heinrich XIII. Prinz Reuß, 74, in 2022, or of supporting the group. According to Dr. Patrick Pintaske, a spokesperson for the General Public Prosecutor’s Office, “They are alleged to have been involved in establishing a system of so-called ‘Homeland Security Companies’ following the overthrow of the German government.”
The raids involved both the Saxony Special Operations Command (SEK) and Mobile Einsatzkommandos (MEK) due to intelligence suggesting the potential for the suspects to be armed.
Former Naval Weapons Technician Arrested
In Freiberg (Mittelsachsen district), 41-year-old Benjamin Z. was arrested based on an arrest warrant issued by the Dresden Higher Regional Court. LKA spokesperson Kay Anders, 44, stated, “An investigating judge executed the arrest warrant.”
Sources indicate that Benjamin Z., a mechanical engineer by training, was reportedly designated to be a company commander in the event of a successful overthrow. A spokesperson for the German Navy stated they had no comment on the arrest due to the ongoing investigation. Police seized hard drives, outdoor knives, and radios during the searches, and focused particular attention on an underground shooting range within a former hotel.
Connections to Heinrich XIII. Prinz Reuß
Heinrich XIII. Prinz Reuß is currently on trial before the Higher Regional Court in Frankfurt/Main. He and other defendants are accused of attempting to violently overthrow the German government and replace it with their own established state structure. Planning for the coup allegedly began in August 2021, with the intent to storm the Reichstag (Parliament) and overthrow then-Chancellor Olaf Scholz, 65, (SPD).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the “Reichsbürger”?
The “Reichsbürger” are individuals who reject the legitimacy of the Federal Republic of Germany, often adhering to conspiracy theories and historical revisionism. They do not recognize modern German law or institutions.
What is the significance of the “Homeland Security Companies”?
The alleged planning of “Homeland Security Companies” suggests an intent to create a parallel security apparatus capable of enforcing the group’s ideology and potentially challenging state authority after a planned overthrow of the government.
What happens next in this case?
The investigation is ongoing, and those arrested could face prosecution on terrorism-related charges. The trial of Heinrich XIII. Prinz Reuß is also continuing, and the outcome of that case could influence further investigations and prosecutions. It is possible further raids and arrests may occur as authorities continue to investigate the extent of the network.
Given the serious allegations of plotting to overthrow the government, how might these events impact public discourse surrounding extremism and security within Germany?
