BERLIN

German authorities conducted raids Thursday as part of an investigation into a far-right terror group believed to have planned violent chaos and a coup to overthrow the country's democratic system.

Special police forces searched 11 locations across several cities in Saxony and arrested a 41-year-old man, the Dresden prosecutor general's office said. Authorities seized knives, radio equipment and digital storage devices during the searches.

The operation focused on the network surrounding German aristocrat Heinrich Reuss, who is currently on trial in Frankfurt on terrorism charges. Local media reported that the suspects were followers of the far-right Reichsburger (Reich Citizens) movement.

The Dresden prosecutor general's office said Thursday's raid targeted eight suspects, aged 38 to 63, who are accused of membership in or support of a terrorist organization.

According to prosecutors, they were involved in planning the structure of militia units that would operate after a coup.

The Reichsburger movement rejects Germany's legitimacy and claims the country is governed by a so-called “deep state.” Members typically refuse to pay taxes and frequently clash with authorities.

The group around Heinrich Reuss gained national attention following a major anti-terrorism raid in late 2022. Prosecutors allege the network planned a violent coup, with Reuss intended to serve as head of a new state system.

Trials against members of the organization are currently underway in three German cities. The main defendant, Heinrich Reuss, is facing charges in Frankfurt. Additional proceedings are taking place in Munich and Stuttgart.