A man has been arrested in Germany on suspicion of inciting violence against politicians and public officials. The suspect, identified only as Martin S. due to German privacy laws, was taken into custody in Dortmund on the evening of October 23, 2023. Federal prosecutors announced the arrest, stating that the man is accused of terrorism financing and disseminating instructions for violent acts.
According to authorities, Martin S. is believed to have been active on the darknet, calling for attacks on various public figures since at least June 2023. Prosecutors allege that he operated a platform where he published lists of names, referred to as self-styled death sentences, alongside detailed instructions on how to build explosives. This platform allegedly included sensitive personal data about the intended targets.
In addition to promoting violence, he sought cryptocurrency donations to fund these attacks, presenting these funds as rewards for killing the individuals he targeted. The investigation into this case began in June, as noted by Alexander Dobrindt, Germany’s Interior Minister, during a news conference where he was asked about the ongoing inquiry. He described the investigation as focused on a suspect utilizing a “right-wing extremist platform” to finance potential acts of violence against public figures.
Federal prosecutors are responsible for handling significant cases related to extremism and national security in Germany. They have not disclosed the identities of the individuals listed on Martin S.‘s platform or specific details regarding the personal data that was shared.
The arrest highlights ongoing concerns about political extremism and the use of online platforms to propagate violence. Authorities remain vigilant in monitoring and addressing threats to public safety, particularly in the context of rising political tensions.
