Self-Proclaimed ‘King of Germany’ Goes on Trial Over Alleged Criminal Organisation

Peter Fitzek, a 61-year-old German man who calls himself the “King of Germany”, has gone on trial in Düsseldorf alongside three alleged senior members of his banned organisation, the Kingdom of Germany (KRD). The defendants are accused of leading a criminal organisation that sought to establish an alternative state system to replace Germany’s democratic government. Prosecutors allege that the group attempted to create its own banking, insurance and currency systems. Fitzek denies committing any crime, while all four defendants face potential prison sentences of up to 10 years.

Fitzek declared himself the supreme sovereign of the so-called Kingdom of Germany in 2012 and even staged a coronation ceremony wearing royal robes and carrying a medieval sword. The organisation reportedly expanded to around 6,000 members, acquiring land and properties across Germany. Authorities banned the group in May 2025, describing its activities as a threat to the country’s constitutional order. Prosecutors allege that the organisation operated unauthorised financial institutions, issued fake identity documents and created its own currency. The charges also include organised forgery and tax evasion involving millions of euros.

According to prosecutors, the group collected approximately €10 million over five years through unauthorised banking and insurance transactions, donations and paid seminars. It allegedly received substantial contributions, including cash, property and seven kilograms of gold, without declaring the income or paying the required taxes. German intelligence agencies estimate that around 26,000 people are associated with Reichsbürger movements, which reject the legitimacy of the modern German state. While most groups are diverse in their beliefs, authorities warn that a minority are linked to right-wing extremism and potential violence.

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