Amsterdam homes evacuated after interrupted ATM bombing

By Janene Pieters on December 5, 2016 - 08:34
Police
Police. (Politie)

Nine homes on Slotermeerlaan in Amsterdam were evacuated on Monday morning due to a risk of explosion, caused by ATM bombers leaving explosives behind after being interrupted in their bombing by the police, AT5 reports.

According to the police, the ATM bombers were interrupted by a police car driving by while they were still planting their explosives. They fled on a scooter, leaving a van and the explosives behind on the street, near Plein '40-'45.

The fire department, police and Explosive Ordnance Disposal team are at the scene. A wide area around Slotermeerlaan has been closed down to the public. Evacuated residents were given shelter in a nearby hotel, according to the local broadcaster.

The ATM bombers left crows' feet on Cornelis van Vollenhovenstraat, to damage the tires of any vehicles that chased them. The police gave chase, but the perpetrators managed to escape. 

According to GVB, the police closing down the area is affecting bus 69 and trams 7 and 14. Travelers are advised to keep an eye on GVB's website for delays and detours.

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