Investigators follow new tips to suspected RAF terrorist's trail
Investigators have now released photos of possible weapons used by the trio to rob money transporters. In Klettes apartment, according to the LKA, a "convincingly real-looking" RPG-7 rocket launcher attrap was found. With the attrap, Klette, Staub and Garweg are suspected to have intimidated and threatened their victims during several robberies.
Furthermore, in the apartment, a Polish assault rifle similar to the AK-47 type and a Czech machine pistol were discovered. Both were reportedly war weapons. At least one of these weapons is believed to have been used during multiple robberies. Ammunition was also reportedly found.
According to the LKA, since Klette's arrest, 240,000 Euros in cash and a kilogram of gold have been seized. Preliminary findings suggest that at least part of this sum was obtained during the robberies. However, investigators believe that Klette also exchanged larger sums of stolen money into smaller denominations. In this context, the investigators are looking for witnesses.
A total of several thousand pieces of evidence have been seized since Klette's arrest. This includes not only weapons and cash but also digital media such as photos and personal items of the suspects.
According to the LKA, the trio used utensils for identity concealment during the robberies. Among other things, sticky beards, wigs, sticky collars, and storm helmets were seized. In addition, the trio reportedly used a mobile blue light installation and a walkie-talkie during their crimes to facilitate their escape.
Garweg and Staub are suspected to have committed armed robberies on money transporters and supermarkets together with Klette between 1996 and 2016. According to current investigations, they are believed to have stolen around 2.7 million Euros. Earlier, the three were reportedly part of the former leadership of the RAF. They were involved in attacks, the RAF claimed responsibility for over 30 murders between the early 70s and early 90s. 1998, the RAF declared itself dissolved.
- During their time with the RAF-Terrorist (Rote Armee Fraktion), Garweg and Staub were based in Hannover.
- The investigation into Klette's activities has led to warnings being issued in Berlin, as it's believed she may have ties to other RAF members still at large.
- Investigators are exploring the possibility of Garweg and Staub's involvement in several armed robberies in Hanover, which aligns with the RAF's modus operandi during their active period.
- The LKA (Landeskriminalamt, or State Criminal Police Office of Lower Saxony) is collaborating with other German states' law enforcement agencies to track down potential RAF associates, including Garweg and Staub, in connection with the uncovered evidence.
- Daniela Klette, under arrest, is currently facing charges for possession and use of these weapons and her alleged involvement in several bank robberies and money transporter heists.
- Burkhard Garweg and Ernst-Volker Staub were wanted individuals for several years after their departure from the RAF in the mid-90s, but their recent activities have aggravated their crimes, potentially elevating them from mere political terrorists to common criminals.
