German authorities have called for inspections at all army barracks in the country, after Nazi-era memorabilia was found at two barracks, broadening a scandal about right-wing extremism among soldiers. 

The latest discovery at a barracks in southwest Germany was made as part of an investigation following the arrest of an army officer in April, on suspicion of plotting a racially motivated attack.

As a result, armed forces Chief of Staff Volker Wieker ordered a wider search for material in barracks linked to the Wehrmacht, the army which served Adolf Hitler. 

Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen said the military must root out right-wing extremism.

The suspect's goal, she said, had likely been to carry out an attack and then pin the blame on migrants, according to Reuters. Officials found Wehrmacht memorabilia openly displayed in the common room of the garrison where the officer was arrested, despite a ban on Nazi symbols. 

Spiegel Online reported the second incident at a garrison in southwest Germany, where pictures of Wehrmacht soldiers were found on a wall, along with Nazi pistols, more helmets and military decorations. 

Displaying Nazi items such as swastikas is punishable under German law, although possession of regular Wehrmacht items is not. Von der Leyen said last week, however, she would not tolerate the veneration of the Wehrmacht in today's army, the Bundeswehr.

A preliminary report into the inspection of all barracks is due on Tuesday, with final results due on May 16.