Undermining is a broad term encompassing various criminal activities. Think of jobs such as trafficking or distributing drugs, placing an explosive at someones front door, or money laundering. The police observe that young children, some as young as eleven or twelve, are already being used to carry out tasks for criminals. With the money they receive, they can buy expensive items they would otherwise have had to save for a long time.
For many young people, it can be very tempting to earn money quickly this way. But the risks and consequences are often significant and, especially at a young age, sometimes unforeseeable. The quick money earned, for example by delivering drugs or placing an explosive, also has a downside. The danger of a homemade explosive and the pressure criminals can exert on perpetrators and their families, for example. Also, the long-term consequences: a criminal record, imprisonment, inability to open a bank account, and no chance of getting that dream job.
Campaign
Through a special campaign, the Police Unit The Hague and the municipality of Zoetermeer are drawing attention to this issue during the week of November 3. Students from various schools in Zoetermeer are offered a program to raise awareness of the risks and consequences of undermining crime. They receive tools to act appropriately in certain situations and to ask for help. For this, the police, the municipality of Zoetermeer, and Gro-Up youth work bring the Mobile Media Lab, a VR experience, and a special escape room to the students in Zoetermeer.
The campaign is held for the second consecutive year, and new this year is that interested citizens are also welcome to be informed about this topic. On November 4 and 6, between 12:00 and 15:00, interested citizens can visit Zanzibarplein near the roundabout.
Help
Youth and/or their parents/caregivers who have problems related to undermining crime can receive help in various ways. Municipalities have organized this in different ways, and by contacting the local police officer or police via 0900-8844, you can be referred to the appropriate agencies. Additionally, you can anonymously report your story via Report Crime Anonymously (0800-7000). This applies not only if it concerns you personally but also if you are worried about someone in your environment.
Undermining
Undermining is a broad term that includes various criminal activities. All forms of crime that threaten the integrity of our society fall under undermining. Examples include drug trafficking and criminal exploitation.
In undermining, the boundaries between the upper world (the normal society) and the underworld (crime) blur. This form of crime is organized, and innocent people can become involved and even victims without being aware of it. Criminals increasingly involve younger children, and the police are concerned about this so-called young recruitment.
In tackling this form of crime, which weakens and disrupts society, the police work together with various partners such as the Public Prosecution Service and municipalities. But the help of citizens is also essential. Do you see, hear, or smell something suspicious? Do you feel something might indicate a form of undermining crime? Always report it, even if in doubt. This can be done via the options below. Additionally, you can find more information via vraaghetdepolitie.
