Employees from the municipalities of Ede and Barneveld, alongside the police and Environmental Service De Vallei, visited various homes in the countryside on Wednesday, March 5. They engaged in discussions about undermining criminal activities in properties and barns. For many, this may seem like something that doesn’t happen nearby. However, it also occurs in the countryside of Barneveld and Ede.
During the visit, owners were informed about signs indicating criminal activities. These include the presence of people and vehicles at odd hours (evening and night), covered windows, presence of cameras, and strange odors. Various examples of undermining crime emerged during discussions. In the past, a cannabis plantation was found at someone’s property, and an owner reported being approached to rent out a barn for which 100,000 euros was offered. Several examples arose where owners were approached to rent out a barn or stable. The WhatsApp group, in which many residents participate and share experiences, has proven very successful.
Mayor Van der Tak of Barneveld: “It is good to actively visit property owners in the countryside and make them aware of the risks of renting out properties to criminals.” Mayor René Verhulst of Ede: “With this joint action in the countryside of the municipal borders in Barneveld and Ede, we show that municipalities collaborate and do not limit themselves to their municipal borders. Criminals don’t do that either.”
Do you suspect something is wrong in your neighborhood? Or are you personally dealing with undermining criminality? Then it is important to always report this. Do this to the police (0900 - 8844) or anonymously to Meld Misdaad Anoniem (0800 - 7000).
Curious about what such an action looks like? Then watch the video on YouTube.(Links to an external website)