Law enforcement forces detonate a gathering promoting far-right combat sports ideologies
For years, right-wing extremists have been making their presence known in the combat sports community. They arrange their own tournaments and establish connections within the scene. This trend is also seen in Hachenburg, a town in Rhineland-Palatinate. However, the authorities intervene and shut down these events. Approximately 130 right-wing extremists were present at the scene.
In a covert operation late at night, the police disbanded a large gathering suspected of having extremist right-wing ties. In the Fassfabrik area of Hachenburg, Rhineland-Palatinate, around 130 participants of the event were documented by the officers, according to a police spokesperson. The police believe that the minor faction III. Weg was responsible for organizing the event. Previous intelligence had indicated a combat sports event, with attendees hailing from various parts of Germany and the Netherlands, and attracting individuals of "all ages." Over 200 officers were involved in the operation.
The spokesperson described the event as "essentially a sports event within an enclosed space," not one requiring registration. The authorities are currently investigating any potential right-wing extremist links to the event.
No arrests were made. There was no resistance during the gathering of personal details, the spokesperson said. The police are currently examining whether any infractions, such as the use of unconstitutional symbols, occurred. The area was blocked off by the authorities, and it was illuminated with floodlights.
The spokesperson added that there was a "platform for combat sports demonstrations" at the event. It is believed that the "common ideology was emphasized" there, he said. The combat sports may have been "more intense than usual."
"Nazi, anti-Semitic, and racist"
In its latest report on the III. Weg, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution states that the micro-party was founded in 2013 and now boasts around 800 members or supporters. Its statements are "Nazi, anti-Semitic, and racist." The rejection of democratic rule of law is blatantly expressed in its propaganda, particularly in relation to topics such as asylum and immigration, which are presented with aggressive rhetoric. The III. Weg has been under the watchlist of the Rhineland-Palatinate Office for the Protection of the Constitution for a considerable period of time.
The Fassfabrik is recognized as a right-wing stronghold in the Westerwald by the Rhineland-Palatinate Office for the Protection of the Constitution. The III. Weg often conducts "self-defense training" there. There are also "nighttime gatherings" linked to combat sports events, serving as networking opportunities for other right-wing extremist actors.
In light of the III. Weg's reputation for making Nazi, anti-Semitic, and racist statements, the police were extra vigilant during their operation. Despite no arrests being made at the combat sports event in Fassfabrik, the police are still investigating potential right-wing extremist links and any use of unconstitutional symbols.
