Police in Saxony Grapple with Surge in Suspected Extremism Cases
The Saxon police have registered 20 new suspected cases related to right-wing extremism, according to a recent response from the Ministry of the Interior. This development brings the total number of such cases recorded since 2017 to 113.
A dedicated coordination unit for extremism prevention and control has been established to address these concerns. The ministry’s data reveals that the suspected incidents primarily involve racist and anti-Semitic remarks by officers, as well as unconstitutional statements on social media.
Other incidents include the downplaying of Nazi crimes, the use of a banned slogan, and the adoption of a "greeting form" – a reference to the Hitler salute. With only two exceptions, all reported incidents occurred within the police academy.
In one particularly egregious case, the ministry alleges that an individual engaged in repeated "National Socialist, racist, xenophobic, and sexist remarks" during classroom sessions at the academy over an extended period.
The list also includes 13 police cadets who are suspected of displaying a "hand gesture associated with right-wing extremism." The cadets allegedly posed for a group photograph while making the "White Power" salute.
Interior Minister Armin Schuster (CDU) has repeatedly condemned such incidents. However, he has also sought to put the situation into perspective, stating, "I want to emphasize that over 99% of the 15,500 police officers stand firmly on the ground of our free, democratic, and constitutional order."
Coordination and Prevention Efforts
The Saxon government has established a coordination unit for extremism prevention and control to tackle the issue. The unit is responsible for monitoring and analyzing suspected cases, coordinating measures across different authorities, and developing prevention strategies.
The police academy has also implemented a "zero-tolerance" policy toward extremism. This policy includes mandatory training for all cadets on recognizing and addressing extremist ideologies, as well as regular background checks.
Background and Context
Saxony has long been a hotbed of right-wing extremism in Germany. The state is home to numerous neo-Nazi groups and has witnessed several racially motivated attacks in recent years.
The Saxon police have been under scrutiny for their handling of right-wing extremism, with critics alleging that the force has been slow to respond to incidents and has failed to adequately purge extremist elements from its ranks.
The latest surge in suspected cases underscores the ongoing challenge of combating extremism within law enforcement. It also highlights the importance of effective coordination, prevention measures, and a culture of accountability within police organizations.
Key Statistics
- 20 new suspected cases of right-wing extremism registered in Saxony
- 113 total cases recorded since 2017
- Over 99% of Saxon police officers deemed to be free of extremist affiliations
- 13 police cadets suspected of displaying "White Power" salute
- Dedicated coordination unit established for extremism prevention and control
Additional Information
For more information on the situation in Saxony, refer to the following sources:
- Antwort der Sächsischen Staatsregierung auf die Kleine Anfrage "Aktuelle Verdachtsfälle im Zusammenhang mit Rechtsextremismus in der sächsischen Polizei": https://www.landtag.sachsen.de/de/aktuelles/presse/pressemitteilungen/213853
- Bundesamt für Verfassungsschutz: https://www.verfassungsschutz.de/
- Saxon Ministry of the Interior: https://www.smi.sachsen.de/
