Self-Proclaimed 'King' of Germany Arrested Amidst Extremist Group Crackdown

In a significant move to combat extremism, German authorities have arrested Peter Fitzek, who claims to be the 'king' of Germany, along with three senior members of his banned group, the Reichsbürger. This group has been accused of attempting to undermine the state and promote antisemitic narratives.

Self-declared "king" Peter Fitzek, 59, has been arrested alongside three senior figures from his extremist group, the Reichsbürger, during coordinated morning raids across seven German states, involving approximately 800 security personnel. The group, which aims to establish the "Königreich Deutschland" or "Kingdom of Germany," has been officially banned by the government due to its attempts to create an alternative state.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt condemned the Reichsbürger for seeking to "undermine the rule of law" and disseminating antisemitic conspiracy theories that support their claimed authority. He announced the dissolution of the group, alleging that it financed its activities through criminal economic structures. Fitzek's previous attempts to assert himself as a monarch included a crowning ceremony in 2012 where he donned ermine robes and wielded a medieval sword. He claims to command thousands of followers, referred to as his "subjects."

In a 2022 BBC interview, Fitzek characterized the German state as "destructive and sick," maintaining he had no violent intentions despite his group's growing notoriety for extremism. With around 25,000 Reichsbürger in Germany, the movement has witnessed a surge in activity over recent years, often characterized by right-wing extremist views and refusal to recognize the authority of law enforcement, leading to violent confrontations.

Fitzek has encountered legal issues before, including prior arrests for driving without a license—a symbolic act of rejecting authority. Previous investigations revealed plans by some Reichsbürger members for violent coups, which resulted in multiple arrests. As extremism continues to spread, officials are increasingly categorizing the Reichsbürger as a serious threat to national security, with the federal prosecutor's office in Karlsruhe classifying Fitzek's group as a criminal organization.

The country's increasing actions against radical elements like Fitzek's group serve as a concerted effort to uphold democracy and counteract far-right extremism in Germany.