A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network began their trial on this week, facing charges for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the nickname “Hammer Gang”.
International terrorist designation and legal charges
Earlier this month, the United States classified the organization as a terrorist group together with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist networks.
Authorities in Germany state the network was behind attacks on locations in Germany and Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose establishment reportedly served as a meeting point for far-right supporters.
Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, causing several severely injured.
Court proceedings and international connections
The trial involving six men and one woman is scheduled to continue until July 2026 in the city of Dresden. Two defendants, identified as Johann G and Paul M, also face charges for attacks in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, around an yearly gathering called the “day of honor” that attracts far-right participants from across Europe.
Separately, another German activist, Maja T, is currently on trial in Hungary for multiple charges of attempted assault against far-right activists in the lead-up to the same rally in that year.
Historical background and group hierarchy
Eastern Germany has historically served as a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the often militant antifascist groups that oppose them.
Authorities characterize Johann G as a high-ranking member within Antifa Ost, tasked with organizing violent acts and bringing in new members.
Together with Paul M., he is accused of organizing instruction courses where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. At depots managed by Paul M, the network reportedly stockpiled hammers, pepper spray, disguises and communication devices.
Previous convictions and international reactions
Another militant previously active with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for attacks on presumed far-right targets.
The US designation makes group members barred from entering the United States, freezes any assets they could possess within the American economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.
The German right-wing Alternative for Germany applauded the US decision and urged the government in Berlin to take similar action. However, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “taken note” of the American classification.
“The threat from the organization has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and particularly violent members have received convictions or remain detained.”
Interior ministry representative
