Published: Sept. 5, 2007

SCHWERIN, Germany, Sept. 5 (UPI) -- The mayor of a small German village says neo-Nazis have gained control of the town, using arson and threats to establish a reign of terror.

Jamel Mayor Uwe Wandel said that after spending nearly six months as mayor of the German village, he now recognizes that the neo-Nazi population is the real power in the area, Der Spiegel reported Wednesday.

"We have given up on Jamel," the 49-year-old mayor said.

The problem began in 1992, when about 120 neo-Nazis gathered in the area and allegedly threatened a neighboring family. Police were ultimately called in to deal with the group, but only after the family's home was damaged.

Since then, the neo-Nazis have allegedly used arson -- or the killing of pats -- to threaten villagers who do not meet their approval.

A state parliament delegation recently visited the area and swore to take action, Der Spiegel said.

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