Thanks to collaboration between various police units, fifteen suspects have been arrested. These arrests are the result of investigations that are often unrelated. ‘We want to send a strong signal to the perpetrators of attacks: you will not get away with your actions,’ says Wim Hoek from the Rotterdam police.
Pizza Place
The suspects, aged between 14 and 25, come from Rotterdam, Delft, Spijkenisse, Capelle aan den IJssel, Hoogvliet, Schiedam, The Hague, and Amsterdam. They have been arrested in connection with attacks on a pizzeria in Rotterdam and other locations.
Explosive in Trunk
One suspect is believed to be involved in an explosion in The Hague, where an explosive was found in a rental car. This led to the arrest of several suspects.
More arrests are not ruled out in the future.
After the arrests, various weapons and valuable items were seized.
Impactful
For risky arrests, the arrest team is deployed. ‘Placing an explosive is a serious crime,’ emphasizes Hoek.
Record High
In the Netherlands, the number of bomb attacks rose to 1244 last year, with various backgrounds. This ranges from criminal conflicts to personal vendettas.
‘Brokers’
In 2024, 106 arrests were made in Rotterdam, compared to 76 the previous year. The police are also focusing on the clients behind the executors.
‘We see a great willingness among young people to commit this crime,’ says Hoek.
Consequences
The consequences of an arrest are significant, with possible damage claims and criminal records affecting the future.
Injuries
Hoek warns of the dangers of committing attacks, where young people can seriously injure themselves. He also urges parents to talk to their children about the risks.
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