Eight members of far-right group arrested in Germany and Poland
Al JazeeraNov 07
Eight Held in Germany, Poland for Allegedly Plotting Nazi-Inspired Coup
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Above: Policemen escort a man, one of eight suspected members of a militant group, after he was heard at the Federal Court of Justice in Karlsruhe, southern Germany, on Nov. 5, 2024. Image copyright: ULI DECK/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
German police have arrested seven members of the Saechsische Separatisten (Saxony Separatists) group, along with their ring leader, for allegedly plotting a Nazi-inspired armed takeover of Germany's eastern regions through "ethnic cleansing."
The separatists were reportedly preparing for "Day X" of seizing power through urban warfare, having acquired fatigues, helmets, and gas masks. Over 450 officers raided 20 premises linked to the militant group, which was originally formed in 2020.
The Spin
Narrative A
Germany's far-right now has unprecedented influence, even enough to garner considerable vote share. This rise echoes the pre-World War II success of Nazi factions, stirring significant alarm within Germany and beyond. With Germany's influence in Europe and its democratic history, these developments reflect a potentially dangerous trend.
Narrative B
The rise of far-right parties is often exaggerated to stir public anxiety, particularly in Germany. Support for such parties in Europe is actually modest compared to past elections. In it's most recent election, Greece's far-right secured only 12.77% of votes while, in Italy, Giorgia Meloni's once-radical party has shifted toward the center. The tendency to label diverse parties as "far right" oversimplifies the modern political landscape.
