A group of seven people accused of being the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network went on trial on Tuesday, facing charges for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the nickname “Hammer Gang”.
International terror listing and prosecution case
Earlier this month, the US government classified the organization as a terrorist organization along with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.
German prosecutors claim the group was behind attacks on locations in Germany and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a meeting point for rightwing activists.
Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, causing several severely injured.
Trial details and cross-border allegations
The trial involving seven defendants is expected to run until mid-2026 in the city of Dresden. Two defendants, named as Johann G and Paul M., also face charges for violent incidents in Budapest during February 2023, around an yearly gathering known as the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.
In a related case, another German activist, Maja T, is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for four counts of attempted assault against neo-Nazis prior to the identical event in that year.
Historical background and group hierarchy
Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both right-wing extremist and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that oppose them.
Authorities characterize Johann G. as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, tasked with organizing violent acts and recruiting accomplices.
Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by Paul M, the network reportedly stockpiled tools, irritant sprays, disguises and communication devices.
Previous convictions and global responses
Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E, emerged as a symbolic figure within some far-left activist circles following her 2023 guilty verdict for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.
The US designation makes group members barred from entering the United States, 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 government in Berlin to take similar action. However, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “taken note” of the US designation.
“The threat from the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and most aggressive participants have either already been convicted or remain detained.”
Interior ministry representative
