Trial against neo-Nazis: Attack on Görlitz politicians begins!

Trial against neo-Nazis: Attack on Görlitz politicians begins!

A violent attack on local politicians in Görlitz continues to cause excitement. On October 27, 2025, media reported that a group of masked attackers immediately attacked Samara Schrenk and other left-wing politicians during a protest against the neo-Nazi group “Elblandrevolte”. Schrenk, who is not only a member of the Görlitz district executive committee of the Left Party but also heads the “Klare Kante” alliance against right-wing extremism, has established herself as one of the most visible voices against right-wing extremism in the region. She regularly organizes demonstrations to take a stand against the increasing threats and attacks from the right.

As MDR reports, bottles were thrown during the attack and at least three people from the five-member group of local politicians were beaten. The police were able to quickly arrest two suspects who were in possession of protective gloves and pyrotechnics. This incident is not isolated, but is in the context of increasing aggressiveness by right-wing extremist groups in Saxony.

The background of the “Elbeland Revolt”

The “Elblandrevolte”, which has been active for about a year, has gained popularity through its public appearances and particularly through the use of social media such as TikTok. The leader of this group, 18-year-old Finley P., is also the base leader of the Young Nationalists (JN), the youth organization of the right-wing extremist party “Die Heimat” (formerly NPD). As Zeit Online reports, the “Elblandrevolte” primarily attracts young people and has already caused a stir during its protests against Christopher Street Day in Bautzen. It's a strategy aimed at establishing themselves as a sort of far-right internet brand while drawing attention to themselves.

At the end of their demonstration in Görlitz, Schrenk and her fellow activists were attacked. This incident in late 2024 set off a series of searches; The public prosecutor's office had several properties in the Görlitz and Dresden area searched. During the course of these investigations, blank guns and ammunition were also found.

The impact on civil society

As a result of these attacks, civil society actors in Saxony are confronted with a worrying wave of threats and intimidation. Organizations such as the Network Tolerantes Sachsen and the Amadeu Antonio Foundation actively campaign against right-wing violence and anti-Semitism and try to mobilize civil society against such events. Wikipedia lists numerous initiatives and alliances that resolutely counter right-wing extremism, from Amnesty International to the German Trade Union Confederation.

For the right-wing extremist scene, the “Elbland revolt” is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it is increasingly gaining supporters, but on the other hand, it is being put under pressure by targeted police and public prosecutor's measures. The trial, which is now scheduled to last four days, is scheduled to end with a verdict on November 25, 2025. Citizens in Görlitz and the surrounding area are wondering how long such incidents will continue to increase and what measures will actually be taken to maintain security and cohesion in society.