Dutch police disperse far-right protest in The Hague
Dutch riot police dispersed a far-right demonstration in The Hague on Saturday after protesters threw fireworks, sticks and other objects at officers, according to Dutch broadcaster NOS.
Authorities ended the demonstration at the Malieveld after violence continued, while an emergency order was imposed in part of the city to allow police to remove people contributing to public disorder.
March banned over security concerns
Earlier Saturday, authorities banned a planned march through The Hague, citing concerns over public order, violence against police and the continued presence of protesters wearing face coverings.
After the march was prohibited, authorities allowed a separate demonstration by the far-right group Wij Zijn Het Volk to proceed at the Malieveld.
Several hundred protesters had gathered at the site by early afternoon.
Riot police use water cannon
The situation later escalated as protesters threw fireworks, sticks and smoke bombs at police.
Riot police responded by deploying a water cannon and moved to disperse the crowd. An unknown number of protesters were arrested.
The municipality said the demonstration was ended because of continued violence, with protesters escorted away from the area.
Minister condemns violence
Dutch Justice and Security Minister David van Weel condemned the incidents in a post on X, referring to what he described as Hitler salutes, antisemitic slogans and violence against police.
He thanked police officers for enforcing public order and said firm action was necessary.
The protest took place one year after a demonstration at the same location also escalated into violence.
Source:AA
