We understand that this incident evokes emotions. Parents, youth, and teachers witnessed a significant situation. That affects us too. At the same time, police officers are expected to restore calm and order in an unsafe situation, and for that, the police are authorized to use force. After this incident, we are critically reviewing our role and how we responded in this situation and are in contact with those involved.

Warned

The police were called because the exam stunt at the school escalated. Fights broke out and vandalism occurred. School staff felt threatened, and the report stated that students were also injured. When the police arrived, there was still a large group of over a hundred youths around the school entrance. The atmosphere was grim, and objects were thrown at the police. Despite repeated requests to leave the schoolyard, some students refused to comply, and the situation escalated further. Before action was taken, attempts were repeatedly made to resolve the situation calmly with the help of the school management and conversations with the youth. Afterward, the police also warned that force could be used if the youths did not leave. To restore public order and safety, we are expected to step forward. The police are authorized to intervene with force if the situation requires it, even against minors.

Police Violence

The group that, after multiple warnings and orders to leave the premises, continued to seek confrontation was subsequently removed from the area. Police officers formed a line and threatened to use force. Ultimately, physical force was also used, and the baton was deployed several times. No stun gun was used. Ultimately, three arrests were made because these three minors kept returning and insulting officers. They were arrested for insult and disturbing public order. They have since been released.

Footage

We are aware of the footage of the incident and understand that this raises questions. Violence is intense, and therefore we must critically and carefully review our actions. The actions of the colleagues are being assessed and evaluated. We are also looking more broadly at what happened. In the meantime, we have also spoken with parents and youth who came to us with concerns and complaints. Ample time has been taken to hear their story. This is also an important part of our work. The school is organizing information meetings for parents, where they can go with questions and concerns about the events of Wednesday afternoon. The police are also involved in this.

Assessment

The actions of the colleagues are being assessed and evaluated. This is done according to a standard and careful assessment process. The involved colleagues report the violence to the assisting public prosecutor, who makes a mutation or a registration of it. In the case of a registration, the actions are evaluated by the police chief. The police chief bases their decision on advice from the sector head and the committee on the use of force. The committee includes an independent citizen appointed by the Minister of Justice and Security.

Complaints

Anyone who feels affected by what has happened can report to us. We handle complaints with care and see them as an important part of transparent and learning actions.