Migrants can be 'shot, gassed': Far-right German figure

BERLIN

The former spokesperson of far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) believes that migrants can be shot or gassed, a local newspaper claimed on Monday.

According to German newspaper Zeit, Christian Luth met YouTuber Lisa Licentia at a dinner earlier this year, and made strong statements against immigrants in Germany.

Asked if the arrival of more migrants was in the interest of AfD, Luth allegedly said: "Yes. Because then AfD will be better. Still, we can shoot them all. This is no problem at all. Or, gassing, or whatever you want. It's the same to me."

He added: "The worse it gets for Germany, the better for the AfD."

The comments are due to be aired in a TV documentary by German channel Pro7.

In April, the AfD dismissed Luth as the party's spokesperson for reportedly describing himself as a fascist.

After Monday's development, he was also sacked from the party, the largest opposition group in parliament, according to German broadcaster DW.

"The comments attributed to Christian Luth are totally unacceptable and incompatible with the aims and policies of the AfD," co-leader of the AfD's parliamentary group, Alexander Gauland, was quoted as saying.

Germany has witnessed growing racism and xenophobia in recent years, fueled by the propaganda of far-right, anti-Semitic, and anti-Muslim groups.

*Writing and contribution by Busra Nur Bilgic Cakmak in Ankara