Young extremists arrested for plotting attacks against refugees
In Germany, five young individuals associated with the right-wing terrorist group Last Line of Defence have been detained. The group was reportedly planning attacks on refugees and political opponents.
What do you need to know?
- The arrests took place in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Brandenburg, and Hesse. The police operation was carried out on Wednesday morning, and those detained are between 14 and 18 years old.
- The group was planning attacks on refugees and political opponents. Their aim was to undermine the democratic system in Germany.
- In October 2024, there was an arson attack on a cultural centre in Altdoebern. The damage amounted to approximately £430,000, and the perpetrators were members of the group.
What were the plans of the Last Line of Defence?
The Federal Public Prosecutor General in Germany stated that the detained members of the Last Line of Defence perceive themselves as the last line of defence for the "German nation." Their activities were intended to destabilise the democratic system through acts of violence, mainly targeting migrants and political opponents.
Who is behind the attacks?
Two members of the group were responsible for the arson attack on the cultural centre in Altdoebern in October 2024, which resulted in damages of approximately £430,000. The "Kultberg" cultural centre was known for its stance against right-wing extremism. At the beginning of January 2025, an arson attack on a centre for asylum seekers in Senftenberg was also planned.
What other extremist groups are there in Germany?
The Last Line of Defence is just one of several active right-wing extremist groups in Germany. Other organisations, such as German Youth Forward and Young and Strong, also make headlines through acts of violence and activity on social media. The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution highlights their recruitment of young, action-oriented individuals.
