Alleged Dark Web Hit List Featuring Merkel and Scholz Leads to Arrest

**German Man Arrested for Darknet "Kill List" Targeting Merkel and Scholz**

Alleged Dark Web Hit List Featuring Merkel and Sch...

German authorities have apprehended a 49-year-old man, identified as Martin S., on suspicion of operating a darknet platform that solicited bounties for the assassination of prominent public figures, including former Chancellors Angela Merkel and Olaf Scholz. The suspect, who also holds Polish citizenship, was arrested in Dortmund and is currently in pre-trial detention.

Prosecutors allege that Martin S

Prosecutors allege that Martin S., who has suspected neo-Nazi affiliations, ran the "Assassination Politics" website since at least June 2025. The platform reportedly published personal data, "death sentences," and hit lists containing the names of over 20 potential victims, including judges and prosecutors alongside the high-profile politicians.

The suspect is accused of financing terrorism and providing instructions for acts of violence endangering the state. He allegedly posted instructions for making explosives and solicited cryptocurrency donations, which were then offered as rewards for the murders of targeted individuals. The website also reportedly featured right-wing extremist, racist, and conspiracy-driven content.

Local media reports suggest that Martin S. had connections to neo-Nazi circles and participated in far-right events. Some outlets have also linked him to the Reichsburger (Reich Citizens) movement, a far-right, conspiracy-driven network that rejects the legitimacy of the modern German state. Members of this movement believe the historical German Reich still exists and refuse to recognize the current government, laws, and institutions. They often refuse to pay taxes or fines.

Germany's domestic intelligence agency estimates that approximately 25,000 people nationwide belong to the Reichsburger and related groups, with some considered prone to violence. The arrest of Martin S. highlights the ongoing threat posed by right-wing extremism and the use of the darknet to incite violence and target public figures. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as authorities delve deeper into the suspect's activities and connections. This incident underscores the vigilance required to combat extremism and protect democratic institutions from online threats.