A 24-year-old man was arrested on Thursday, August 14, in Badhoevedorp. He is suspected of preparing a terrorist crime, possession of weapons, and manufacturing (parts of) weapons and ammunition. The investigation into the man began after a report from the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) stating that the suspect is willing to commit right-wing terrorist violence and is in possession of firearms.
The suspect claims to be a member of the Geuzenbond, an organization aimed at youth in the Netherlands and Belgium, which has been designated as far-right by the National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security (NCTV). The Geuzenbond is categorized as one of the so-called ‘active clubs’, which strive for the normalization of right-wing extremist ideology and to make the ‘white race’ resilient through physical training. The organization is active both online and through demonstrations.
During searches on Thursday at the address where the suspect is registered, in the Brabant village of Erp, prohibited firearms and ammunition were found. The National Unit for Investigation and Interventions (LO) is conducting further investigations, under the direction of the National Prosecutors Office. The suspect was presented to the examining magistrate in Rotterdam on Friday, August 15, who decided that he would remain in custody for 14 days.