Far-right violence and terrorism – September 2024

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Introduction

In September 2024, the global landscape was marked by an alarming presence of terrorism linked to extreme right-wing ideologies. This analysis underscores the paramount significance of this issue in the contemporary world order.Terrorism, irrespective of its ideological roots, has long posed a grave threat to international peace and security. Recent times, however, have witnessed a distinct shift in this threat landscape. The ascent of extreme right-wing terrorism has introduced a new layer of complexity to the global security equation. This report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of extreme right-wing terrorism in September 2024, offering insights into its evolution, and current manifestations. By dissecting the trends, causative factors, and ramifications of this phenomenon, our objective is to foster awareness and inform policymaking while fostering international collaboration to counter this growing menace.

UNITED STATES

PHRC Condemns Antisemitic March in Harrisburg, Advocates for Unity

The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) has condemned the recent antisemitic march that took place in downtown Harrisburg, where masked individuals spread hateful rhetoric. PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter called the event an act of hate and cowardice, praising the community’s swift response with an anti-hate rally the next day. The PHRC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting individuals from hate and discrimination through community outreach and collaboration with civic organizations (1).

The PHRC’s newly established Civil Rights Outreach Division, formed in 2024, focuses on educating communities about the dangers of bias and hate while providing training, conflict resolution, and proactive engagement. Recent data from the Anti-Defamation League shows a significant rise in antisemitic incidents in Pennsylvania, further motivating the PHRC to lead efforts in promoting peace and unity. An anti-hate rally is planned to support the Harrisburg community in the coming weeks.

Person Arrested for Attacking Jewish Students at the University of Pittsburgh

A person has been arrested after attacking a group of Jewish students on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh, leaving two students injured. The attacker, who has no known affiliation with the university, used a bottle in the assault near the university’s Cathedral of Learning (2). The injured students were treated at the scene, while campus police immediately apprehended the suspect and remains in custody.

This attack comes amid a rise in antisemitism on U.S. college campuses, which has intensified following the conflict between Israel and Hamas. University officials have coordinated with local Jewish organizations in response to the incident, emphasizing that violence and antisemitism will not be tolerated.

68 Suspected White Supremacist Gang Members Charged in Major Los Angeles Takedown

Federal prosecutors have charged 68 suspected members and associates of the Peckerwoods Gang, a white supremacist group, in Los Angeles. The sweeping indictment includes accusations of racketeering, firearms and drug trafficking, and financial fraud. While no imminent attack was alleged, U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized that the group’s mission involves planning attacks against racial, ethnic, and religious minorities. Estrada stated, “We are not going to wait for the next tragedy to take action” (3).

More than 40 of the accused individuals were arrested, marking one of the largest operations ever against a neo-Nazi, white supremacist organization, according to Estrada. The Peckerwoods Gang, based in the San Fernando Valley, operates as a local arm of the Aryan Brotherhood and collaborates with the Mexican Mafia, enhancing their ability to commit crimes such as drug trafficking, fraud, and violence. Estrada highlighted that the gang is fueled by hatred, specifically targeting racial and religious minorities. Law enforcement also seized firearms, bomb-making materials, and large quantities of drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine during the investigation.

Former Huntington Beach Resident Pleads Guilty to Planning and Engaging in Riots for White Supremacy

Robert Paul Rundo, a 34-year-old former resident of Huntington Beach, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges related to violating the federal Anti-Riot Act by planning and engaging in violent riots at political rallies across California. Rundo was affiliated with the “Rise Above Movement” (RAM), a white supremacist group that sought to incite violence at public events to promote its extremist agenda (4). According to the plea agreement, he participated in organized training sessions designed to prepare RAM members for confrontational encounters, posting violent messages and celebrating assaults online.

Prosecutors emphasized the seriousness of Rundo’s actions, stating they were motivated by hate and intent to undermine civil rights. He faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison, with sentencing scheduled for December 13. Two other individuals linked to the case have also been charged, including Robert Boman and Tyler Laube, who have already pleaded guilty to a related offense. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat hate crimes and extremist violence.

Leaders of White Supremacist Group Arrested for Inciting Racial War

Authorities announced the arrest of two leaders of a white supremacist group accused of attempting to incite a “racial war” and carry out attacks against Jews, immigrants, and members of the LGBT community (5). The suspects, Dallas Humber, 34, from Elk Grove, California, and Matthew Allison, 37, from Boise, Idaho, were taken into custody and were set to make their first appearance in federal court.

The arrests stem from the use of an online forum known as “Terrorgram,” where the duo allegedly coordinated their extremist plans and discussed targeting marginalized communities. Leaders Dallas Humber and Matthew Allison face 15 counts including soliciting hate crimes and support for terrorism. This action underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat hate-driven violence and prevent potential attacks inspired by extremist ideologies.

White Supremacist Sentenced to 18 Years for Plotting Attack on U.S. Power Grid

Sarah Beth Clendaniel, an American white supremacist, was sentenced to 18 years in prison for planning an attack on electrical facilities near Baltimore, a predominantly Black city close to Washington, D.C. Clendaniel had aimed to destroy several power stations as part of her violent extremist ideology, which sought to incite racial unrest. She was arrested in February 2023, along with Brandon Russell, a co-founder of the neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen, who was also sentenced. Both will serve their sentences concurrently, with Clendaniel facing 18 and 15 years for her charges (6).

Clendaniel’s plot was part of a larger pattern of attacks on U.S. power grids, which authorities suspect are being carried out by white supremacists to incite chaos and violence. FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized that Clendaniel’s plan aimed to cripple the Baltimore area’s power supply, impacting thousands of people to advance her extremist agenda. In a related case earlier in 2023, two men in Washington state were arrested for similar attacks on electrical facilities, leaving thousands without power. Authorities believe these incidents are connected to a growing movement of white supremacists trying to provoke a “racial war.”

SPAIN

Barcelona Fans Banned for Champions League Game Due to Nazi-Style Flag Display

UEFA has banned Barcelona from selling tickets to its fans for the upcoming Champions League away game against Red Star Belgrade on November 6, following a charge of “racism and/or other discriminatory conduct.” The sanction stems from a Nazi-themed banner displayed by Barcelona supporters during a recent match, with the words “Flick Heil” in apparent reference to the team’s new German coach, Hansi Flick (7).

This ban activates a previous probationary sanction from last season, when Barcelona fans made Nazi salutes at a Champions League game against Paris Saint-Germain. In addition to the ticket sales ban, Barcelona has been fined $11,000 and faces another potential ticket ban if a similar incident occurs within the next year.

FINLAND

Finnish Neo-Nazi Linked to UK Riots Shared Arson Instructions Online

A 20-year-old neo-Nazi from Finland, Charles-Emmanuel Mikko Rasanen, has been identified as sharing an arson manual with UK rioters through the Southport Wake Up group on Telegram. Operating under the alias “Mr. AG,” Rasanen played a significant role in inciting violence during protests in England and Northern Ireland by promoting attacks on refugee centers and posting offensive content targeting Muslims and Jews. The manual, reportedly created by a Russian fascist group, provided instructions on avoiding police detection while encouraging acts of arson against minority groups (8).

Rasanen’s involvement in these violent events highlights the growing transnational reach of far-right extremists, transforming him from an isolated individual into a prominent online figure with over 14,000 followers. Despite his online activities and past investigations by Finnish police, Rasanen has not faced legal consequences in his home country. Authorities in both the UK and Finland are aware of the situation, and further investigations are underway, but Finland’s lack of an extradition agreement with the UK complicates potential legal action.

AUSTRALIA

Three Men Accused of Nazi Salutes Claim They Were Imitating a Comedian

Three men, Daniel Muston (41), Ryan Peter Marshall (31), and Anthony Raymond Mitchell (32), are facing charges for allegedly performing Nazi salutes outside the Sydney Jewish Museum on October 13, 2023. The men told New South Wales police they were joking, with Mitchell claiming he was imitating a performance by British comedian Ricky Gervais. This incident occurred shortly after attacks in Israel by Hamas, with Magistrate Jennifer Atkinson questioning the timing of their actions, given the sensitive context.

The court is testing legislation passed in 2022 that prohibits displaying Nazi symbols in New South Wales, carrying a potential penalty of up to 12 months in jail or an $11,000 fine. The men’s defense argued that their actions were for artistic purposes, citing Gervais’ comedic act. The case continues, with a judgment set for October 24, 2024. The men pleaded not guilty to the charges of offensive behavior and displaying Nazi symbols without valid justification (9).

NEW ZEALAND

Two Auckland Muslim Schools Closed Following Threatening Email

Two Muslim schools in Auckland, New Zealand, were closed on Monday after receiving a threatening email that included a disturbing video of a man shooting randomly from a vehicle. The New Zealand police recommended the closure of Al-Madinah Primary and Secondary School after the administration reported the emails concerning content. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the threat while maintaining a police presence at the school.

Additionally, the nearby Zeyed Islamic Women’s School initiated a temporary lockdown as a precaution but later allowed individuals to leave safely. A third school, Iqra Primary, restricted access to its facilities. Abdur Razzak, a representative of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand, described the threat as a “horrible” reminder of the 2019 white supremacist attacks in Christchurch, which resulted in the deaths of 51 Muslims and prompted significant changes in New Zealand’s gun laws and a campaign against hate speech online (10).

Graphical Analysis of Far-Right Terrorism in September 2024

In September 2024, the global landscape of far-right terrorism remained deeply concerning, with a notable increase in violence and extremist activities. There were 10 incidents primarily concentrated in North America, Europe, and Oceania, with the United States continuing to lead the list. This persistent threat illustrates the rising prevalence of extremist ideologies and their ability to incite violence across various regions.

In Europe, Spain and Finland reported incidents related to far-right extremism, marking a troubling development in regions that are typically not associated with such violence. The inclusion of Finland in this context is particularly striking, as the country has historically maintained a relatively low profile concerning far-right activities. Similarly, while Australia and New Zealand each registered two events related to extreme right violence, their emergence on this list highlights an unsettling shift in the dynamics of extremism in these usually stable nations.

These incidents contribute to the overall alarming trend in the region and suggest that even countries with strong democratic traditions are not immune to the influences of extremist ideologies. As authorities grapple with these developments, the necessity for vigilance and comprehensive strategies to combat far-right terrorism has never been more critical.

In September 2024,  the presence of far-right extremism remains a significant concern, as evidenced by an act of violence and an increase in related incidents. These events underscore the persistent threat posed by extremist groups, which continue to challenge social stability and public safety.

A particularly noteworthy development this month was the significant takedown of 68 suspected members of a white supremacist gang in Los Angeles. This operation underscores the serious challenges that law enforcement faces in combating organized far-right extremism. Additionally, targeted threats against election officials and law enforcement exemplify the ongoing risk that these extremists pose to democratic processes and public officials. The combination of violent incidents, incitement, and targeted threats reveals a broader pattern of radicalization and hostility that remains a critical challenge for authorities. As these groups persist in their efforts to disrupt and intimidate, the urgency for vigilant law enforcement and comprehensive strategies to counteract far-right extremism is more pressing than ever.

Throughout September 2024, the far-right extremist landscape remained deeply troubling, with Neo-Nazi, white supremacist, and broader extreme right ideologies continuing to dominate. These dangerous beliefs have fueled numerous incidents of violence and hate, underscoring their persistent and harmful influence on society. This month, a pronounced focus on race-oriented ideologies emerged, particularly about antisemitism, anti-immigration sentiments, and anti-Muslim rhetoric, which recorded the highest number of incidents.

The rise of these ideologies is part of a broader global trend, reflecting a disturbing increase in racial animosity and xenophobia. Events such as protests in various countries have highlighted how these ideologies can mobilize individuals and groups, fostering division and hostility within communities. The ongoing prevalence of antisemitism, along with the targeting of immigrant and Muslim populations, demonstrates the adaptability of far-right extremism and its capacity to exploit social tensions for recruitment and radicalization.

REFERENCES

Al Jazeera. (2024, 27 septiembre). Barcelona fans banned for one Champions League game for Nazi-style flag. https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2024/9/27/barcelona-fans-banned-for-one-champions-league-game-for-nazi-style-flag-football

BBC. Thomas, E. (2024, 2 octubre). BBC confronts neo-Nazi who gave UK rioters arson tips. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp8l9gpp8yro

Campbell, J. (2024). CNN. Dozens of suspected white supremacist gang members arrested in Los Angeles area in domestic terrorism investigation. https://edition.cnn.com/2024/10/02/us/la-suspected-gang-arrests-domestic-terrorism/index.html

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The PHRC strongly condemns the neo-Nazi weekend march in Harrisburg | Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. (s. f.). https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/phrc/phrc-news—information/newsroom/the-phrc-strongly-condemns-the-neo-nazi-weekend-march-in-harrisb.html

Efe. (2024, 9 septiembre). SWI swissinfo.ch. Cierran dos escuelas musulmanas de Nueva Zelanda tras recibir un mensaje amenazante. https://www.swissinfo.ch/spa/cierran-dos-escuelas-musulmanas-de-nueva-zelanda-tras-recibir-un-mensaje-amenazante/87514159

Hashomer, A. (2024, 31 agosto). Noticias de Israel. Un detenido tras ataque a estudiantes judíos en Universidad de Pittsburgh. https://israelnoticias.com/antisemitismo/un-detenido-tras-ataque-a-estudiantes-judios-en-universidad-de-pittsburgh/

Justice.gov. (2024, 13 septiembre). Former Orange County Resident Linked to White Supremacist Group Pleads. https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdca/pr/former-orange-county-resident-linked-white-supremacist-group-pleads-guilty-plotting

La Nación. (2024, 25 septiembre). Condenan a 18 años de cárcel a supremacista que planeaba atacar instalaciones eléctricas en EEUU. https://www.lanacion.com.ar/estados-unidos/condenan-a-18-anos-de-carcel-a-supremacista-que-planeaba-atacar-instalaciones-electricas-en-eeuu-nid25092024/

Reporter, G. S. (2024, 16 septiembre). The Guardian. Ricky Gervais skit shown in hearing for men accused of Nazi salute outside Sydney Jewish Museum. https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2024/sep/16/nazi-salute-trial-sydney-jewish-musuem-ricky-gervais-ntwnfb