Riots in The Hague - Police Seek Witnesses and Video Footage

Utrechtsebaan

The disturbances began when a large group of more than 1000 people split off from the demonstration and headed towards the Utrechtsebaan, apparently with the intention of occupying it. Officers wanted to engage with the group as usual, but were immediately met with violence. Glass and stones were thrown. The Mobile Unit responded immediately, and a water cannon was also deployed with the mayors approval. He also issued an emergency decree and later authorized the use of tear gas at Malieveld.

Malieveld

When the rioters were pushed back from the Utrechtsebaan to Malieveld, large waves of violence against the police emerged from that same group. Brutal violence was not shunned, and poles and fences were used to inflict harm. Officers from the Mobile Unit were repeatedly attacked in multiple locations on Malieveld simultaneously and pelted with heavy equipment. Several police vehicles were also set on fire.

Center

Later in the afternoon, a group of rioters spread through the city center. They attempted to enter the Binnenhof area and vandalized the D66 party office. Some rioters then lingered in the vicinity of the Plein and were removed by us.

Large-scale investigation

On the day itself, a total of 37 rioters were arrested, 27 of whom are still in custody. Their cases are being assessed, after which the Public Prosecutor will decide on the further course. On Saturday, September 20, a large investigation was also launched. A so-called Large-scale Investigation Team (TGO), led by the Public Prosecution Service, will investigate the course of these disturbances and will identify more rioters. Therefore, future arrests cannot be ruled out.

Witnesses and video footage

In this investigation, the police can greatly benefit from the help of witnesses and holders of any video footage. Do you have information about these suspects or information about this case? The detectives would like to contact you via the free tip line 0800-6070. Prefer to remain anonymous? Then call Crime Anonymous at 0800-7000. For a confidential conversation, you can contact the Criminal Intelligence Team (TCI) at 088-9647543. It is also possible to upload video footage via the tip form below.

Violence against police officers (GTPA)

The police find aggression and violence against its employees or other helpers unacceptable. Police officers have a responsible role in society and must be able to perform their work without being hindered. With mutual respect. Aggression or violence, in any form, against employees is not tolerated. Police and justice apply the same approach: reports are always recorded, suspects are prioritized by the Public Prosecution Service, and a threefold higher sentence is demanded against these suspects.