Dutch Police Clash with Anti-Immigration Protesters, 30 Arrested and 2 Officers Injured
Dutch police used tear gas and water cannon to disperse violent anti-immigration protesters in The Hague on Saturday. Thirty people were arrested and two officers injured as large groups of people clashed with police.
The protest, which began around 1 pm local time, saw approximately 1,500 people block a highway crossing the city. A police car was set on fire during the chaos. According to the Netherlands news agency ANP, citing police figures, rocks and bottles were thrown at officers.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the violence as "shocking and bizarre" and deemed it "completely unacceptable". Right-wing leader Geert Wilders, who has retained his lead in opinion polls ahead of a 29 October vote, also condemned the violence against police as "utterly unacceptable", attributing it to "idiots".
The protest was organized by a right-wing activist demanding stricter migration policies and a clampdown on asylum seekers. The demonstration saw many protesters waving Dutch flags.
In response to the clashes, the police have vowed to take a firm stance against any future violence. The immediate impact of the event is being felt, with many calling for increased security measures in the city.
The protest's background context is rooted in ongoing debates about migration policies and asylum seekers in the Netherlands. Right-wing groups have been pushing for stricter regulations, while others argue that such measures are discriminatory and ineffective.
As the situation unfolds, authorities will be monitoring the situation closely to prevent any further violence. The outcome of the 29 October vote will also be closely watched, with many expecting Geert Wilders' party to retain its lead in opinion polls.
*This story is developing. Information compiled from Bbc reporting.*
