Chaos after New Year's: Authorities warn that the ban on fireworks will not stop the violence
The Dutch authorities have retreated from taking stronger measures for future New Year's celebrations after the spread of violence and attacks on emergency teams during the 2025-2026 holiday, where attackers directly targeted firefighters, police, and civilians using fireworks, resulting in injuries and chaos in several cities.
In The Hague, firefighters were pelted with fireworks on Schependreef street while trying to extinguish a burning car. In Alphen aan den Rijn, a car caught fire after driving over fireworks, causing the airbags to explode and the fuel system to shut down, leaving the car trapped among protesters. Two officers in a patrol car were also pelted with firework bombs, including 'Cobra' type fireworks.
Nationwide, around 250 people have been arrested amid a record 112 emergency calls and an increase in fire brigade interventions. The police are facing a personnel shortage and a financial deficit of 850 million euros, making it difficult to maintain order. Gert Forink, head of the Oost-Nederland police unit, confirmed that law enforcement needs to improve, suggesting trials using water cannons equipped with tear gas, larger pepper spray canisters, and dyes to track those involved later. He warned that the planned violence even included minors (ages 14-15), and that a ban on fireworks alone would not restore order immediately.
Nien Kooyman, the head of the Dutch police union, suggested a national collection of fireworks, even anonymously, to remove illegal fireworks from homes. Officials also emphasized the need for international cooperation to combat cross-border crime networks that smuggle fireworks. Hein van der Loo, the head of the National Safety Council, stressed that private fireworks should be banned and only professional displays should be allowed.
Bert Wijbenga, the outgoing mayor of Vlissingen, called for preventive measures, increased arrests, and fines for repeat offenders. Officials also noted that alcohol, drugs, and general social discontent contribute to the outbreak of violence, suggesting that law enforcement alone may not be sufficient to fully resolve the issue.