Seven individuals allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network began their trial on Tuesday, facing charges for attacks targeting far-right activists that earned them the nickname “Hammer Gang”.
Global terror listing and prosecution case
Recently, the US government designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist group together with multiple additional left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.
Authorities in Germany state the group was behind attacks on sites in Germany and neighboring Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in central Thuringia, whose establishment was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.
Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against suspected far-right members, leaving some with serious injuries.
Trial details and international connections
The trial involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G. and Paul M., are additionally accused for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, around an annual event known as the “day of honour” that draws rightwing extremists from across Europe.
In a related case, another German activist, Maja T, is facing trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted violent acts against far-right activists in the lead-up to the same rally in that year.
Regional context and organizational structure
Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth groups, as well as the frequently radical anti-fascist networks that counter them.
Prosecutors describe Johann G as a senior figure within the organization, tasked with planning attacks and bringing in new members.
Alongside Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by the suspect, the group reportedly stockpiled hammers, irritant sprays, disguises and mobile phones.
Previous convictions and international reactions
Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E, became a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles following her 2023 guilty verdict for attacks on suspected right-wing individuals.
The US designation renders organization affiliates ineligible to enter the US, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the American economy and criminalizes offering assistance to them.
Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany welcomed the American move and called on the German administration to take similar action. However, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “acknowledged” of the US designation.
“The threat posed by the organization has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have received convictions or are in custody.”
Interior ministry representative
