Berlin State Interior Minister Iris Spranger stated that the use of the letter “Z” in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war is within the scope of the crime and said, “If it is determined that the white letter ‘Z’ is used in the context of war, as seen in Russian military vehicles, of course it means supporting this war. This is criminal. And that’s why we intervene immediately.” she used the phrase.
Joachim Stamp, Minister of Children, Family, Refugees and Integration of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, emphasized that the letter “Z” should be banned throughout the country as a symbol, in his post on Twitter.
The Minister of Justice of the State of Bavaria Georg Eisenreich also expressed that the approval of violations of international law would not be accepted.
“WHO WHO APPROVES THIS WAR IN PUBLIC OPINION COMMITS A CRIME”
Spokesperson of the German Ministry of Interior, Marek Wede, stated at the press conference held in Berlin that German security units had found that the letter “Z” was used as a symbol in the country, and that this was seen in demonstrations and acts of damage to property.
Stating that the normal use of the letter “Z” is not prohibited, Wede said, “However, in individual cases, it can mean supporting Russia’s war. This is prohibited according to Article 140 of the Penal Code. The war that Russia started against Ukraine constitutes a crime. Whoever publicly approves of this war is committing a crime.” said.
Emphasizing that the security units are following them, Wede said that they welcome the statements of many states that they will examine whether the incidents constitute a crime and will act accordingly.
Article 140 of the Penal Code stipulates that if crimes are approved or rewarded in a way that disrupts public order, they are punished with imprisonment of up to 3 years.
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