More riots in refugee centers as lawmakers discuss right-wing extremism
Riot police clashed with protesters in Hoofddorp on Wednesday evening after a demonstration outside a refugee center turned violent. Seven people were arrested as police intervened to restore order near Amsterdam.
The unrest began when a far-right activist burned a copy of the Quran, provoking the anger of opposing protesters. Tensions quickly escalated with fireworks and stones being thrown at the police, prompting riot units to intervene.
This recent incident is part of a series of violent acts that have erupted in asylum centers across the Netherlands, following the riots in The Hague last Saturday led by far-right groups. This rising pattern of unrest has intensified the political debate around extremism and public safety.
The new Minister of Justice, Fort van Oosten, admitted on Tuesday that the violence in The Hague was driven by right-wing extremism, after facing intense pressure from opposition MPs.
Security agencies have long warned about the inflammatory rhetoric of some politicians. The AIVD intelligence agency and the NCTV counter-terrorism unit confirmed that statements from some 'charismatic' leaders regarding immigration could lead to violent reactions from extremist groups. AIVD chief Erik Akkerboom emphasized before lawmakers that most protests remain peaceful, but recent riots should be classified as extremist violence. He said: 'This is not normal and should not be treated as such, because the right to protest is important, but always without violence.'