Daniela Klette: The Capture and Conviction of a Red Army Faction Fugitive
For over three decades, Daniela Klette remained one of Germany's most elusive fugitives. A former member of the Red Army Faction (RAF)—a far-left militant organization—Klette managed to evade law enforcement for thirty years, living a seemingly ordinary life in plain sight before modern technology and investigative journalism led to her downfall.
The RAF, specifically its "third generation," was characterized by a structure of clandestine operations and a commitment to militant struggle against the state. Klette was a key figure in this network, eventually becoming one of the most wanted women in Germany.
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Key Facts
- Identity: Daniela Marie Luise Klette, a former member of the Red Army Faction (RAF).
- Time in Hiding: Approximately 30 years.
- Arrest Date: February 27, 2024.
- Location of Arrest: Berlin, Germany.
- Sentence: 13 years in prison for armed robberies.
- Capture Method: Aided by facial recognition and biometric software used by investigators.
The Long Road to Capture
While German police relied on traditional methods, such as artist's impressions of how Klette might look at age 65, they were hindered by strict privacy laws that prohibited the use of advanced face comparison tools. This gap in capability allowed Klette to blend into society, where she reportedly lived a normal life, engaging in activities such as dog walking and dancing.
The Role of Biometrics and Bellingcat
The breakthrough came not from official police channels, but through the work of Michael Colborne, an employee of Bellingcat specializing in face biometrics (the use of mathematical formulas to analyze facial features). Colborne utilized biometric software to search the internet for faces similar to Klette's.
During the investigation, a suspect nicknamed "Monika" was ruled out. However, a second lead led to a woman nicknamed "Felicia," who appeared in numerous photos and videos from a capoeira club in Berlin. After analyzing images from the club chairman's Facebook page and visiting the club in person, investigators strongly suspected that "Felicia" was indeed Daniela Klette.
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Arrest and Legal Proceedings
On February 27, 2024, German authorities arrested Klette in Berlin. Following her arrest, a search of her apartment in Berlin-Kreuzberg uncovered weapons, including a grenade that had to be defused by specialists.
The legal process culminated in 2026. After being charged by the public prosecutor, Klette appeared in court where she was found guilty of her involvement in armed robberies. On May 27, 2026, she was sentenced to 13 years in prison.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Affiliation | Red Army Faction (RAF) - Third Generation |
| Primary Charges | Armed Robberies |
| Capture Tool | Facial Recognition/Biometric Software |
| Final Sentence | 13 Years Imprisonment |
| Arrest Location | Berlin-Kreuzberg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Daniela Klette?
Daniela Klette was a member of the third generation of the Red Army Faction (RAF), a far-left militant group in Germany. She was one of the country's most wanted fugitives for three decades.
How was she eventually found?
She was identified through the use of biometric facial recognition software by an investigator from Bellingcat, who matched her face to photos of a woman attending a capoeira club in Berlin.
Why did it take 30 years to catch her?
Klette lived a quiet, inconspicuous life. Additionally, German police were limited by strict privacy laws that prevented them from using the same facial recognition tools that eventually led to her discovery.
What was she convicted of?
Klette was found guilty of armed robberies and was sentenced to 13 years in prison in May 2026.
What was found during the police raid of her home?
Police discovered weapons in her Berlin-Kreuzberg apartment, including a grenade that required professional defusing.