Police and Municipality of Schiedam Take Action Against Youth Groups Involved in Violence and Robberies

Gebied: Schiedam

Earlier this year, Schiedam faced a series of robberies and violent incidents mainly involving underage suspects. Investigations showed these incidents were largely linked to youth groups from Schiedam. Thanks to intensive cooperation between the Rijnmond-North district detective unit and the Schiedam basic team, over twenty suspects have been arrested.

These individuals are suspected of attempted manslaughter, public violence, robberies, street thefts, confidence tricks, thefts, illegal possession of weapons, and threats.

Measures

Some of the suspects are still in custody. Others have been subjected to supervision measures, including a curfew, area bans, and contact prohibitions with each other and victims. Several suspects also wear electronic ankle bracelets to monitor compliance with these conditions.

Compliance with these measures is closely monitored by the police in cooperation with probation services and the Public Prosecution Service. Recently, a 16-year-old suspect was re-arrested for violating his curfew.

Perspective

In addition to repressive measures, the municipality of Schiedam also focuses on guidance and perspective for young people. Youth and neighborhood officers regularly visit the youths at home. In cooperation with the municipality and various partners, 15 intensive conversations have been held in recent months with youths and their parents at the town hall. Assistance has been offered to provide them with a future perspective.

In total, the police have identified a group of 68 youths on whom intensive efforts are focused. The joint goal of the police, municipality, and partners is to restore safety in Schiedam and support young people in making positive choices for their future.