Germany Arrests Self-Declared 'King' and Dissolves Extremist Group

In a significant crackdown against extremism, German authorities have arrested Peter Fitzek, a 59-year-old self-declared 'king' of Germany, during dawn raids involving approximately 800 security personnel across seven states. Fitzek, the leader of the extremist group Reichsbürger, which aims to establish a so-called "Kingdom of Germany," has been accused of attempting to usurp state authority. The German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt condemned the group’s attempts to undermine the legal system and propagate antisemitic conspiracy theories. As part of the crackdown, the Reichsbürger group has been officially banned, with accusations of financing through criminal enterprises. Fitzek, who has previously garnered media attention for his flamboyant claims and outlandish behaviours, represented himself in court as "Peter the First" and has been involved in various run-ins with German laws. This incident underscores the growing concern among German officials regarding the Reichsbürger movement, which is increasingly viewed as a serious threat amid the rising far-right influence in the country.

The German federal prosecutor's office confirmed that Fitzek and three associates are facing charges as members of a criminal organization, having demonstrated intentions of disrupting constitutional order. In recent years, instances of violence linked to the Reichsbürger movement have escalated, with a considerable number of members possessing illegal firearms.