German 'hammer gang' trial for seven accused of extreme-left violence

November 25, 2025

Seven individuals are standing trial in Dresden, Germany, for their alleged membership in or support of Antifa Ost, a far-left extremist group also called the "hammer gang. " The defendants face serious charges including attempted murder and aggravated assault for orchestrating violent attacks against right-wing activists in Germany and Hungary between 2018 and 2023. The group allegedly prepared their assaults meticulously through surveillance and combat training, using weapons like hammers and batons to inflict severe head injuries on victims.

Who is affected

Seven defendants: Henry A, Tobias E, Johann G, Thomas J, Melissa K, Paul M, and Julian W
Members of Antifa Ost organization
Victims of the attacks, including four people attacked at Dessau-Rosslau train station in January 2019
Right-wing activists attacked in Budapest in February 2023
Antifa Ost members who are now ineligible to enter the US and have assets frozen

What action is being taken

Seven people are currently on trial in Dresden facing charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault, and property damage
The United States has designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist organization, freezing assets and making it illegal to provide material support

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of political extremism and violent militancy in Europe, demonstrating that violent extremism exists across the political spectrum. The trial represents a significant legal reckoning for organized far-left violence in Germany, while the US terrorist designation adds international pressure and consequences. The case also inflames political tensions in Germany, where the far-right AfD is using it to criticize the government's handling of left-wing extremism and call for stricter measures.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC