German authorities conducted dozens of searches at 15 locations across the country on Wednesday as part of their investigation into the climate activist group’s funding of protests. Last generationresponsible for blocking roads and damaging works of art.
According to Munich prosecutors, seven people between the ages of 22 and 38 who are suspected of forming or supporting a criminal organization are under investigation.
The investigation was opened after several complaints had been received since the middle of last year.
The group members Last generation (Last Generation) have repeatedly blocked roads across Germany in an attempt to pressure the government to take more drastic action on climate change.
In recent weeks, these people in Berlin have stopped traffic almost daily, sticking to the ground at intersections and busy roads. Last year there were protests against various works of art and exhibitions.
The group’s strategy has drawn sharp criticism, and on Monday German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called climate activists “crazy”.
“I think it’s completely crazy for someone to stick to a painting or the street,” Scholz said during a visit to a primary school in the town of Kleinmachnow, on the outskirts of Berlin.
Prosecutors also said those under investigation are charged with organizing and promoting a campaign to “fund new crimes” by the group and raise at least 1.4 million euros ($1.5 million).
Two of the people under investigation are also suspected of sabotaging an oil pipeline between the Bavarian city of Ingolstadt and the Italian port of Trieste.
Wednesday’s searches – accompanied by orders to seize two bank accounts and other assets – were aimed at obtaining evidence about the group’s structure and funding. So far there is no information about any arrests.
The group Last Generation acknowledged that its protests are provocative, but argued that by provoking friction, it could stimulate public debate on climate change.
Source: DN
