This is evident from an analysis of the annual figures from the anonymous reporting center. A record number of 777 reports were made about attacks, materials for explosives, and the storage and trade of illegal fireworks. This is over 50 percent more than in 2023. The total number of reports increased by 19 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year. Only during the corona years 2020 and 2021 were slightly more reports made.
Last year, there was a large number of incidents involving explosions at homes and businesses. The explosion of a drug lab in Rotterdam-Zuid and the deadly attack with explosives on the Tarwekamp in The Hague were the two most shocking cases, but other cities and neighborhoods were almost daily shaken by explosions. Explosions have a significant impact on safety in residential areas, says a spokesperson for the reporting center. The many incidents contribute to a sense of insecurity. This is an important motive for many reporters to report. We notice that these images stay in peoples minds and contribute to their willingness to report.
Weapons confiscated
Making an (anonymous) report is worthwhile. Thanks to the tips, at least 3,372 suspects were identified, and 756 weapons were taken off the streets. The police also seized a large number of goods. For example, they found a stolen fries cart in a warehouse in Bergen, Limburg, discovered four boats of stolen origin in Den Helder, and tracked down two dealers in stolen cargo bikes in Wassenaar.
Tips reported to M. were also important in the conviction of perpetrators of serious offenses. Four men and one woman received sentences of up to four years in prison for large-scale bank helpdesk fraud. They had made dozens of victims, mainly elderly. Five men were sentenced to prison for their involvement in an amphetamine lab in a cheese warehouse in Hengelo, and a man was sentenced to 4.5 years in prison for money laundering bitcoins and drug trafficking via the dark web.
Drug crime
Half of all reports concerned drug crime. The reporting center received 1,2307 tips about drug labs, hemp cultivation, and street trading or trading from homes. There were 2,558 reports about violent crimes, such as public violence, domestic violence, and animal abuse. In 2024, 2,087 tips were received following investigative reporting.
Keep crime out of your neighborhood
You know your surroundings best. Do you ever see something strange in your neighborhood or at work? You might find these situations odd. But did you know that these could be signs of criminal activities? Signs of drug trafficking include a lot of traffic at odd times, people meeting briefly and exchanging something, people bringing in a lot of strange items. On www.houdmisdaaduitjebuurt.nl you can discover what suspicious signals are and what you can do if you see them and have concerns.