Dutch Police Clash with Anti-Immigration Protesters in The Hague
Thirty people were arrested and two police officers injured as Dutch authorities used tear gas and water cannon to disperse violent anti-immigration protesters in The Hague on Saturday. A police car was set on fire, and around 1,500 people blocked a highway crossing the city.
The protest, organised by a right-wing activist, demanded stricter migration policies and a clampdown on asylum seekers. Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the violence as "shocking and bizarre images of shameless violence", calling it "completely unacceptable". Right-wing leader Geert Wilders, who won the previous election in the Netherlands, also denounced the violence against police as "utterly unacceptable".
The protest began at 2 pm local time, with large groups of people waving Dutch flags and throwing rocks and bottles at police. The situation escalated when protesters attempted to breach a police cordon, prompting authorities to deploy tear gas and water cannon.
The immediate impact of the protests is being felt in the Netherlands' capital city, where residents are expressing concern over the escalating tensions. "This is not what we want for our country," said local resident Maria Rodriguez. "We need to find a way to address these issues peacefully."
Background context: The protest was one of several anti-immigration rallies held across Europe in recent weeks, amid growing concerns over migration policies and asylum seeker numbers.
As the situation continues to unfold, authorities are urging calm and calling for peaceful resolution. A statement from the Dutch Ministry of Justice said, "We will do everything in our power to maintain public order and safety." The next scheduled protest is set for October 29, ahead of national elections.
*This story is developing. Information compiled from Bbc reporting.*
