The head of Berlin's Remmo clan, Issa Remmo, attended a conference against Islamism at the European Parliament in Brussels, an appearance that has triggered sharp criticism across Germany and within EU institutions. The event, which focused on combating Islamism and antisemitism, was organized by the European Leadership Network (ELNET) and French conservative MEP Céline Imart, alongside Imam Hassen Chalghoumi, a prominent advocate for interfaith dialogue.
Photographs from the gathering show Remmo, 58, listening to speeches and applauding when the discussion turned to the fight against antisemitism. His presence, however, has been described as a slap in the face to the German justice system, given the extensive criminal record associated with his extended family in Berlin-Neukölln.
Who is Issa Remmo?
Issa Remmo is considered the head of the so-called Remmo clan, a large extended family with roots in the Middle East, estimated to number between 500 and 1,000 members. The core family around Remmo in Berlin comprises around 103 people, many of whom live in the Neukölln district. While not all relatives are involved in crime, a significant number have been convicted of serious offenses over the years.
In 2023, five young men from the clan were found guilty of the spectacular theft of jewels from the Green Vault in Dresden, a heist that shocked Germany and drew international attention. The family has also been linked to other high-profile crimes, including burglaries, drug trafficking, and violent assaults.
Remmo's participation in the EU Parliament event has raised questions about how such a figure could be welcomed as a state guest. According to reports, the hosts were initially unaware of his clan background. Céline Imart later apologized to anyone who may have been hurt by his participation, stating that she had not been informed of his history.
Reactions and political fallout
The controversy has overshadowed other political developments in Berlin. Remmo recently attended an election party of the left-wing party Die Linke in Neukölln, where his son Firas reportedly communicated via chat with Bundestag member Ferat Koçak. This has further fueled debates about the influence of organized crime figures in local politics.
German politicians from across the spectrum have expressed dismay. Some have called for a thorough investigation into how Remmo gained access to the European Parliament, while others have questioned the vetting procedures for guests at such events. The incident has also reignited discussions about the integration of clan structures and the challenges they pose to the rule of law.
In Brussels, the event was intended to promote interfaith understanding and unity against extremism. Jewish, Christian, and Muslim religious representatives took part, and the atmosphere was one of dialogue and cooperation. Yet Remmo's presence has cast a shadow over these efforts, with critics arguing that it undermines the very values the conference sought to uphold.
During the conference, Remmo spoke with French Jewish author Marek Halter about antisemitism, saying: "I am not an imam, but I can say one thing: we are all brothers in this world. Let us all live together, together. Where is the problem? Love will win, and terror will lose." Halter responded with "Inshallah," a phrase that has been interpreted in various ways.
The incident has also drawn attention to the broader issue of how European institutions engage with controversial figures. It comes at a time when the EU is grappling with questions of security, migration, and social cohesion. The European Parliament has recently addressed other sensitive topics, such as the asylum relocation plan and the return of Ukrainian children.
For many in Germany, the image of a clan boss applauding at the EU Parliament is a stark reminder of the challenges posed by organized crime and the need for robust legal responses. The Remmo clan's activities have long been a sore point for law enforcement, and their apparent ability to move in elite circles has only deepened public concern.
As the debate continues, questions remain about accountability and the criteria for participation in such high-level events. The European Parliament has yet to issue an official statement, but the incident is likely to be raised in upcoming sessions. For now, the image of Issa Remmo in Brussels serves as a potent symbol of the complexities facing Europe in its efforts to combat extremism while upholding democratic values.
