Protests and clashes in Tuindorp against underage refugees
Tensions escalated in the Tuindorp neighborhood of Coevorden on Sunday evening after a violent protest against a plan to accommodate unaccompanied minor refugees in the area. The protest began with dozens of residents gathering in a central square holding signs with phrases like "No place for minors here" and "We are fed up." Protesters say they oppose the decision because they believe local youth should have priority for housing.
Over time, the security situation deteriorated, as fireworks were launched and eggs were thrown at the police, who arrived in large numbers to maintain order. The police described the situation as "dangerous" and are considering taking additional measures to prevent a recurrence of the events. Despite the violence, no arrests have been reported so far. Later in the night, fires broke out with unclear targets, including the ignition of a trailer. Firefighting teams were able to quickly control the flames, and the police are currently investigating the connection of these fires to the protest.
These incidents come after a series of hostile actions in the area over the past few days, including the vandalism of surveillance cameras and the breaking of windows of houses near the site designated for receiving refugees.
In a strongly worded statement, the mayor of Coevorden, Renze Bergsma, condemned what happened and considered it unacceptable behavior aimed at instilling fear among the neighborhood residents and intimidating the underage girls who will be welcomed at the center, saying: "These are girls aged between 15 and 18, who have fled dangerous situations and need a safe place to rest, learn, and build their future. We as a community are responsible for that, and they are children, not a threat."
The mayor added that the municipality has provided many opportunities for residents of the neighborhood to express their concerns and questions, calling for dialogue instead of resorting to violence, which has "crossed all boundaries," as he put it.