Trial begins for alleged Reichsbürger group ringleaders in Germany

Trial opens in Düsseldorf

Four members of the banned far-right Kingdom of Germany are expected to appear before the Düsseldorf Higher Regional Court. The defendants are accused of membership in a criminal organization and other offenses. Among the defendants is Peter Fitzek, known within the group as its “King.” All four have been held in pre-trial detention since the group was banned in May 2025.

Prosecutors outline alleged plans

The Federal Prosecutor’s Office alleges that Fitzek and the other defendants aimed to replace the German republic with their own system. Prosecutors say the group created purported institutions, including banking and insurance services and an office issuing fictitious identity documents.

When the group was banned, hundreds of police officers searched 15 properties across Germany. The Interior Ministry said officers found additional evidence of the organization’s anti-constitutional aims and activities.

Other issues on Germany’s agenda

Authorities estimated that the group had around 1,000 followers when it was banned. The ban followed more than a decade of monitoring, according to the report. German lawmakers are set to vote on a bill that would increase penalties for using date-rape drugs.