Probing into the matter - Islamic group prohibited following search operation
Authorities conducted search operations on properties belonging to the German-Speaking Muslim Community (DMG) in Braunschweig and Berlin this Wednesday. A total of eight locations were targeted, as stated by a spokesman for the Lower Saxony Interior Ministry. In Berlin specifically, it initially involved two personal residences, according to DPA sources.
As per the spokesperson, these investigations were undertaken to enforce a club ban. "This ban prohibits the continuation of club activities by the previous members as well as any action by outsiders advocating for the illicit group," he shared, declining to provide additional details due to ongoing interrogations. The raid was initially reported by Norddeutscher Rundfunk and Der Spiegel. Further details on the search and the club ban are anticipated to be made public later in the day.
In a previous report on the Constitutional Protection Report, the Lower Saxony Interior Ministry disclosed in June 2023 that the German-Speaking Muslim Community in Braunschweig had become a nationwide haven for Salafist evangelists. "These nationally acclaimed Salafist preachers hold regular sermons, which are made available to numerous observers through the DMG Braunschweig's variety of online platforms," it stated. The association had expanded its web presence significantly in the interim.
According to the Ministry, the DMG Braunschweig YouTube channel had more than 70,000 subscribers in May 2023 alone. "The risk of self-radicalization, particularly given the extensive digital possibilities for information-gathering and communication, remains substantial," it warned.
The DMG promotional website showcases several programs designed for kids and youths, including Quran camps, children's camps, youth summits, and study circles.
Read also:
- The public prosecutor's office in Germany is reportedly involved in the probe of the Islamic group prohibited after the search operations.
- The police in Berlin and Lower Saxony were part of the raid on the properties of the German-Speaking Muslim Community (DMG) on Wednesday.
- The Ministry of the Interior in Germany has shown determination in enforcing the club ban on the DMG, even if it means conducting raids in cities like Berlin and Brunswick.
- Religion plays a significant role in the activities of the DMG, with Salafist preachers using the DMG Braunschweig's online platforms to hold sermons and influence viewers.
- The public is concerned about the potential for self-radicalization among kids and youths attending DMG's programs, given the extensive digital possibilities for information-gathering and communication.
- The search operations by the police in Germany is a testament to the country's commitment to combating crime and maintaining security, even when it involves investigating suspected illegal activities of a religious group.