Arrest of a young man from **Heemskerk** for posting false publications that sparked youth disturbances in **Beverwijk**
A 20-year-old man from the city of Heemskerk was arrested on Friday evening for spreading false information and inciting unrest via social media, related to the rising tensions between youth groups in Beverwijk and Heemskerk. The police confirmed the arrest on Saturday but did not disclose the specific nature of the posts.
The arrest came after a tense day in which five high schools in the two cities were closed on Friday due to fears of violence breaking out. Authorities also imposed emergency measures including a ban on gatherings and wearing face-covering clothing in an attempt to maintain order.
The situation worsened after disturbing videos spread online, including scenes of violent confrontations, such as a boy being kicked in the head, as well as AI-generated clips showing fake explosions in schools. These materials circulated widely among students and parents, increasing fear and confusion.
Local fears had already escalated after previous clashes between competing youth groups. Videos showing violent confrontations were circulated as 'victories', and many parents advised each other not to send their children to school. Sports clubs also urged their young members to avoid going out alone in the evening.
Despite these alarming posts, the police reported that Friday and the following night remained calm, with no new incidents in Beverwijk or Heemskerk. Authorities confirmed that this proves the messages circulating online were false and deliberately misleading.