25 people suspected of plotting a coup and overthrowing the government have been arrested during police raids in Germany, the BBC writes.
German media reported that a group of far-right extremists and former military personnel had planned to occupy the Reichstag and seize power. The coup plotters represent the extremist group Reichsbürger, which has long been watched by German police for violent attacks and racist conspiracy theories.
The conspirators planned to replace the state apparatus with the state model created in 1871 – the German Empire.
Police raids have taken place in large parts of Germany, and two more people have been arrested in Austria and Italy. Interrogation of the detainees is scheduled during the day. German Justice Minister Marko Buschmann stated on Twitter that a large-scale anti-terrorist operation is underway.
The central figure of the coup is considered to be a resident of Germany known as Prince Heinrich XIII. According to federal prosecutors, he is one of the two leaders of the group.
It is reported that former employees of military structures, including those who served in special task forces, played an important role in the coup plan. It is also reported about the participation of a right-wing ex-member of the lower house of the parliament. The conspirators had already made plans for governing Germany, and they were aware that their goals could only be achieved by military force and violence against officials. It also includes murders.