German intelligence has identified the PKK as a major threat to the country due to its illegal activities related to recruitment and extortion. The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution in Germany has published a report stating that the PKK is the terrorist organization with the largest number of members and influence among foreign-linked extremists in the country. The PKK has been banned in Germany since 1993 and is recognized as a terrorist entity by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union.
In 2023, the PKK committed 286 crimes in Germany and raised between 16 and 17 million euros through fundraising campaigns. The organization had 14,000 members in Germany last year, making it the foreign extremist group with the largest membership in the country. The PKK has been actively recruiting young supporters, particularly from Germany and other European countries, for its armed struggle. German authorities have noted that over 300 Germans have joined PKK combat units since June 2013, with some facing fatalities while others have returned to Germany.
The report also highlighted the PKK’s involvement in demonstrations throughout Germany, which pose a risk of persistent conflict. The organization has been known to carry out militant actions such as property damage and arson targeting state buildings and private Turkish institutions. The PKK operates within Germany with four sectors and nine regions, each led by an administrative official. The “Confederation of Kurdistan Communities in Germany” is a central organization that mobilizes for terrorism-related events and demonstrations in line with the PKK’s agenda.
Turkey has repeatedly warned Germany about hosting PKK members and has pending extradition requests for several individuals. The National Intelligence Organization in Turkey has also warned Germany about the PKK’s Syrian branch, YPG, attempting to hold elections in northern Syria.
Overall, the German intelligence report sheds light on the significant threat posed by the PKK in the country, highlighting its extensive illegal activities, recruitment efforts, and involvement in demonstrations. The PKK’s presence in Germany continues to be a source of concern for both German and Turkish authorities, as the organization’s activities have the potential to escalate conflict and pose security risks.
Article Source
https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/german-intel-identifies-pkk-as-major-threat-to-country-197724