German authorities have arrested a man accused of running a darknet forum that reportedly operated as a bounty platform targeting politicians and public figures. The forum, sometimes referred to in media reports as “Assassination Politics,” allegedly allowed users to contribute cryptocurrency donations that could have been intended as financial rewards for carrying out attacks. Investigators say the platform published lists of potential targets along with “death sentences,” instructions for making explosives, and calls for violent action, effectively creating a system of incentives for attacks.
Target Lists and the Bounty System
Media reports indicate the forum included more than twenty individuals, including former German Chancellors Angela Merkel and Olaf Scholz, judges, former ministers, and other public officials. Many targets were reportedly chosen based on their involvement in implementing COVID-19 public measures. Each entry on the platform included personal information and self-formulated “death sentences,” and in some cases, suggested methods of attack. The forum solicited cryptocurrency donations, which authorities say may have been intended as bounties, though it has not been publicly confirmed whether any payments were made.
Investigation and Arrest
German authorities arrested the 49-year-old suspect, identified only as Martin, in Dortmund on November 11, 2025. Federal prosecutors and domestic intelligence services had been investigating the site since at least mid-2025 after receiving tips about its activities. Prosecutors allege that Martin S. coordinated the solicitation of cryptocurrency donations, published lists of targets with “death sentences,” and provided instructions for violent acts. Charges include financing terrorism, inciting acts of violence that endanger the state, and disseminating personal data in a way that could threaten public safety.
Details about whether the suspect acted alone or as part of a broader network remain under investigation, and authorities have not confirmed the full target list or the total amount of cryptocurrency donations received.
Conclusion
The case illustrates the risks posed by darknet platforms that can combine anonymity and cryptocurrency to facilitate real-world threats. German authorities emphasize the challenges of monitoring online spaces where users can share sensitive information and financial incentives while remaining largely untraceable.
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