Police Face Unprecedented Violence in the Netherlands on New Year's Eve

Violent Incidents in the Netherlands on New Year's Eve

The police in the Netherlands encountered an "unprecedented level of violence" on New Year's Eve, as officers were targeted with fireworks. A 19th-century church in Amsterdam was engulfed in flames in the early hours of New Year's Day, though the cause of the fire remains unknown. Vondelkerk, located near the city's largest park, Vondelpark, has been a tourist attraction since 1872. In Rotterdam, a 17-year-old boy and a 38-year-old man lost their lives in incidents related to fireworks. Similar incidents were reported in Bielefeld, Germany, where local authorities indicated that two 18-year-olds died after using homemade fireworks.

The head of the Dutch Police Union, Nine Kooiman, reported being attacked with fireworks and other explosives during her service in Amsterdam. Rescue efforts across the country were hampered by assaults on police and firefighters. In Breda, in the southern part of the country, petrol bombs were thrown at police officers. The eye hospital in Rotterdam treated 14 patients, including 10 minors, for eye injuries, with two requiring surgery. In Amsterdam, the 50-meter tower of the historic Vondelkerk collapsed. Authorities stated that the roof suffered severe damage, but the structure should remain intact. This neo-Gothic basilica was designed by architect Pierre Cuypers, who is also known for his work on the Rijksmuseum.

A decree banning unauthorized fireworks is set to come into effect in 2026. According to the Dutch Fireworks Association, a record €129 million was spent on fireworks this year.