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A group of seven people accused of being the left-wing extremist organization the Antifa Ost network began their trial on this week, accused for attacks targeting far-right activists that earned them the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

International terror listing and prosecution case

Recently, the US government classified the organization as a terrorist group along with multiple additional European far-left and anarchist networks.

Authorities in Germany state the group was responsible for attacks on sites in Germany and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose venue was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of using hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some severely injured.

Trial details and international connections

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is expected to run until July 2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G. and Paul M., also face charges for violent incidents in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering called the “day of honour” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.

Separately, another German activist, Maja T, is facing trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted violent acts against far-right activists prior to the same rally in that year.

Regional context and group hierarchy

Eastern Germany has long been a breeding ground for both far-right and anti-immigrant youth organizations, as well as the frequently radical antifascist groups that oppose them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a senior figure within the organization, responsible for planning attacks and recruiting accomplices.

Together with Paul M, he is accused of organizing training sessions where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. At depots overseen by the suspect, the group reportedly stockpiled hammers, pepper spray, disguises and mobile phones.

Prior legal cases and global responses

A different activist previously active with the organization, Lina E, became a cause celebre within some far-left activist circles following her conviction in 2023 for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

The US designation makes group members barred from entering the US, freezes any assets they may have within the American economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party welcomed the American move and called on the government in Berlin to take similar action. In contrast, the German foreign ministry merely commented it had “taken note” of the American classification.

“The threat from the organization has recently decreased significantly. Key leaders and most aggressive participants have received convictions or are in custody.”

Government representative