German prosecutors announced on Wednesday that they have brought charges against a sixth individual in connection with an alleged far-right conspiracy aimed at abducting Health Minister Karl Lauterbach in response to COVID-19 restrictions, with intentions extending to the overthrow of the government.
The 61-year-old suspect, hailing from the central western state of Hesse, faces accusations of involvement in “the preparation of a treasonous enterprise and membership in a terrorist organization,” as outlined by Frankfurt prosecutors in an official statement.
This latest development follows the prior charging of five individuals associated with the group known as “United Patriots,” who underwent trial proceedings in May 2023 in the city of Koblenz. The newly charged individual is alleged to have actively participated in group meetings and contributed to the formulation of specific plans.
These plans reportedly encompassed disruptive actions against the energy infrastructure, with the aim of instigating a prolonged power outage to facilitate a coup d’état. Additionally, the suspect expressed readiness to aid in the kidnapping of Minister Lauterbach, including potential acts of violence against his security personnel, as indicated by prosecutors.
Furthermore, the suspect offered the utilization of his personal garage as a storage facility for weapons intended for the group’s activities.In a particularly concerning revelation, it has emerged that the accused also proposed the prospect of seeking refuge in Russia following the purported coup, purportedly intending to engage in negotiations with Russian authorities and procure military resources.
This highlights a notable departure from democratic principles, underscored by the group’s opposition to the established governmental framework, particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Health Minister Lauterbach, known for his steadfast advocacy of stringent health measures, emerged as a focal point of animosity within far-right circles.
The actions of these individuals reflect a broader sentiment within certain far-right factions, including elements associated with the Reichsbürger movement, which rejects the legitimacy of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Both “United Patriots” and Reichsbürger entities share a common objective of dismantling the current democratic system in favor of an authoritarian regime, drawing inspiration from historical precedents such as the German Empire of 1871.