The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) political party has said it will throw out three of its members who have been arrested on suspicion of having joined an “extremist” paramilitary group. The political party’s announcement comes after eight people were arrested and at least 20 properties were searched during a police operation on Tuesday.

The leaders of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right party polling second in national polls, will meet on Wednesday to initiate proceedings to expel members involved in an extremist group, the party said.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) said Wednesday it was throwing out three party members who were arrested on suspicion of having joined an extremist paramilitary group.