Netherlands: Police arrest dozens amid protests in The Hague June 21 /update 1

Event

Police arrested at least 100 people involved in protests against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) lockdown measures in The Hague on Sunday, June 21. Water cannon and mounted police were deployed to disperse protesters. Reports indicate that a small demonstration had been authorised by authorities, although large crowds gathered in The Hague's Malieveld area. Bottles can be seen being thrown towards riot police in imagery on social media; however, no injuries have been reported among police or protesters. Some reports indicate that the number of people arrested may have been a lot higher, but many have since been released. 

Further related protests are to be anticipated in urban centers, notably in The Hague, in the near term. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are also to be expected in the vicinity of all protest sites.

Context

Similar demonstrations took place in The Hague on May 5, resulting in dozens of arrests. Smaller protests have also been reported in Utrecht.

Advice

Individuals in The Hague are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.