Scandal in Zweibrücken: Bundeswehr is investigating paratroopers!

Scandal in Zweibrücken: Bundeswehr is investigating paratroopers!

The Bundeswehr is currently the focus of serious allegations against paratroopers from the 26 Paratrooper Regiment in Zweibrücken. In recent months there have been increasingly serious allegations, ranging from exhibitionism and right-wing extremism to bullying and drug abuse. The public prosecutor's office has already initiated investigations against 19 soldiers and the first consequences have been drawn, such as the dismissal of 20 soldiers, including members of the company command. [n-tv] reports that the Bundeswehr is planning a number of further measures to counteract these grievances.

The Bundeswehr has announced that it will develop an action plan for the airborne force based on a report by the commander of the field army, Harald Gante. The plan, which will focus on improving training, leadership and prevention, is nearing completion to finally clear the air. [tagesschau] explains that the military disciplinary attorney and the military counterintelligence service are also involved in the investigation.

Allegations of serious misconduct

A central part of the allegations revolves around sexual assault and bullying against members of the airborne troops, especially against women. Reports suggest that women in the force faced exhibitionism and offensive jokes. There are also serious allegations of violent rituals, with at least 30 soldiers said to be involved in right-wing extremist and anti-Semitic incidents. [n-tv] documents that over 200 crimes were reported in this context.

The public prosecutor's office in Zweibrücken has already received 19 criminal complaints, most of which relate to violations of the Narcotics Act as well as incitement to hatred and the use of unconstitutional symbols. It is reported that at a meeting in the barracks, Nazi uniforms were even worn and Hitler salutes were given. [tagesschau] points out that anonymous reports speak of significant problems such as drug abuse and sexual misconduct.

Consequences and the way forward

The Bundeswehr has taken a clear position and described these incidents as unacceptable and could significantly damage the force's reputation. In this context, a spokesman for the Federal Ministry of Defense made it clear that violence, sexism and extremism must have no place in the Bundeswehr. Despite the serious situation, demand for the unit in Zweibrücken remains unbroken. It was emphasized that there are currently no problems recruiting soldiers. [n-tv]

The new commander in the Niederauerbach barracks, who has been in office since October, has also spoken out in favor of the investigation being conducted stringently and transparently. He calls for clear consequences for all those involved who have violated the Bundeswehr's core values ​​and relies on a culture of respect and integrity.

These events shine a bright light on the challenges within the Bundeswehr and the urgent need for reforms to promote healthy and respectful coexistence.