Dutch Police Crack Down on Anti-Immigration Protesters with Tear Gas and Water Cannons

Dutch Police Clash with Anti-Immigration Protesters Dutch police used tear gas and water cannon to disperse violent anti-immigration protesters in The Hague on Saturday, arresting 30 people and injuring two officers. The clashes occurred when around 1,500 protesters blocked a highway crossing the city, throwing rocks and bottles at police. A police car was set on fire during the violence. Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the "shocking and bizarre images of shameless violence", calling 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". The protest was organised by a right-wing activist demanding stricter migration policies and a clampdown on asylum seekers. The demonstration was attended by many waving Dutch flags. The immediate impact of the clashes is being felt across the country, with concerns raised about public safety and the potential for further unrest. Background to the protests lies in ongoing debates over immigration policy in the Netherlands. Right-wing groups have been pushing for stricter controls, while others argue that such measures would be discriminatory and ineffective. As the country prepares for elections on 29 October, the clashes are likely to fuel an already heated debate about migration and asylum policies. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Bbc reporting.*