Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach is worried about his children after the threats from Reich citizens. "I'm very well protected, but it affects my life and I'm worried about my children," said the SPD politician to the "Rheinische Post" (Online Friday).

In April 2022, "Reichsbürger" are said to have planned explosive attacks and the kidnapping of the Federal Minister of Health. Four men were arrested during a nationwide search.

Minister of Health: Danger from "Reich Citizens" underestimated

Lauterbach said he initially underestimated the danger posed by the "Reich citizens". "I didn't even know the Reich citizens a few years ago. Then I thought they were a few harmless crazy people. Today I know that these people are dangerous terrorists, many of whom are armed," said the minister.

"Reich citizens" do not recognize the Federal Republic of Germany as a state. They falsely declare that the historic German Reich continues to exist to this day. The followers negate today's democratic and constitutional structures such as parliament, laws or courts. They do not want to pay taxes, social security contributions or fines.

During a major raid on the scene on December 7, the federal prosecutor arrested a total of 25 people. The accused, including former officers and police officers and a former AfD member of the Bundestag, are accused of planning a state overthrow.