Berlin, July 2026: Four suspects are challenging in court the searches conducted on March 24 and the analysis of seized phones, computers, and other data storage devices. The investigation concerns the attack on the Berlin power grid on September 9, 2025, which targeted two electricity pylons in the southeast of the capital. At the time, around 50,000 private households and approximately 2,000 businesses temporarily lost power. Significant economic damage was also incurred at the Adlershof Technology Park. Although the legal challenges do not have a suspensive effect according to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, media reports indicate that the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) still lacks access to key evidence.
Court reviews challenges to searches
The four accused individuals are challenging the search warrants and the seizure of the devices. They are also explicitly objecting to the analysis of the devices. No court decision has been issued yet. If they succeed, investigators might have to return the items.
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The Public Prosecutor’s Office considers an analysis feasible in principle, despite the complaints. However, sources within the investigation indicate that the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) is currently unable to access the stored data. Authorities have not yet publicly explained this discrepancy; consequently, it remains unclear whether legal, technical, or internal procedural reasons are preventing access.
Raid targeted four suspects
In March, around 500 police officers searched 17 apartments and other premises. The operations took place in Berlin, Hamburg, Düsseldorf, and Kyritz. Officers also seized mobile phones, laptops, documents, and other electronic devices. The four suspects are aged 28, 31, 35, and 36.
The power supply attack in Berlin affected several districts as well as parts of the municipality of Schönefeld. The perpetrators damaged high-voltage cables on two pylons by setting them on fire. Additionally, a claim of responsibility targeting companies and research facilities in Adlershof appeared online. Media reports attribute the incident to the milieu of so-called “Volcano groups” and the left-wing extremist scene. Investigators are therefore pursuing the suspicion of sabotage directed against the constitutional order.
Berlin Power Grid Attack: Dispute Over Digital Evidence
Legal challenges have not brought the investigation to a complete halt. Nevertheless, the data storage devices could contain crucial clues regarding contacts, collusion, and preparations for the crime. The attack on the Berlin power grid caused estimated damages of up to 70 million euros; consequently, the analysis of digital data is of significant importance for any potential indictment.
In parallel, the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office is investigating an attack that took place on January 3, 2026, in the Berlin district of Lichterfelde. That incident left around 100,000 people temporarily without electricity or heating. However, the two proceedings are being conducted separately. While media reports have suggested possible links between the respective suspects, authorities have not confirmed any personal connection. Furthermore, the presumption of innocence applies to all the accused.