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A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the German far-left militant group the Antifa Ost network began their trial on this week, accused for violent actions against rightwing extremists that earned them the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

Global terror listing and legal charges

Recently, the US government designated Antifa Ost as a terrorist organization along with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.

German prosecutors state the group was responsible for attacks on sites in the country and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Among the incidents is the multiple attacks of a business proprietor in Thuringia, whose venue reportedly served as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are said to have using hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some with serious injuries.

Trial details and cross-border allegations

The trial involving six men and one woman is expected to run until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, named as Johann G and Paul M, also face charges for violent incidents in Budapest during early 2023, around an yearly gathering called the “day of honour” that attracts rightwing extremists from across Europe.

In a related case, a different German individual, Maja T., is currently on trial in the Hungarian judicial system for multiple charges of attempted assault against far-right activists in the lead-up to the same rally in 2023.

Historical background and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a senior figure within the organization, responsible for planning attacks and bringing in new members.

Together with Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where radical left activists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities managed by the suspect, the network allegedly accumulated hammers, irritant sprays, disguises and mobile phones.

Previous convictions and global responses

Another militant formerly involved with the organization, Lina E., emerged as a symbolic figure within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

The US designation renders organization affiliates barred from entering the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and makes it illegal offering assistance to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany welcomed the US decision and called on the government in Berlin to take similar action. In contrast, the country's diplomatic office merely commented it had “taken note” of the American classification.

“The danger posed by the organization has recently decreased significantly. The ringleaders and particularly violent members have either already been convicted or are in custody.”

Interior ministry representative