Dutch King: Manchester Arena bombing "has touched us deeply"

By Janene Pieters on May 23, 2017 - 11:40
King Willem-Alexander giving the 2016 Christmas speech
King Willem-Alexander giving the 2016 Christmas speech. (Koninklijk Huis)

King Willem-Alexander is deeply affected by a "terrifying" explosion in Manchester on Monday that left at least 22 people dead, including children. Over 50 others were injured in the explosion at Manchester Arena, just after a concert by teenage pop star Ariana Grande.

"The terrifying attack that took so many young victims, hit us deeply", the King said in a statement on Tuesday, the Telegraaf reports. "We sympathize immensely with all parents who received the terrible news that their child has died wand with all family members and friends who are now immersed in mourning. Also those who are in fear of the fate of their loved ones are in our thoughts."

So far no Dutch seem to be involved in the attack, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The British authorities are still investigating the explosion, but currently believe it was caused by a suicide bomber. 

Amsterdam football team Ajax, who is playing against Manchester United in the Europa League final in Stockholm tomorrow, also expressed support. "From Amsterdam with love to Manchester", the team said on Twitter. "Our thoughts are with the victims and loved ones of those affected." Numerous football players and associations also expressed their support on social media.

"UEFA is shocked by last night's attack in Manchester. Our thoughts are with the victims and families of those affected", the association said on Twitter. In a statement UEFA said that there is no specific intelligence or information that suggests that tomorrow's match in Stockholm may be the target of attacks. 

"UEFA has been closely working with local authorities and the Swedish FA for many months and the terrorist risk had been taken into account since the very beginning of the project. Furthermore, a number of additional security measures were implemented following the attacks in Stockholm last April", the association said. UEFA urged fans to arrive at the stadium, which will open 3 hours ahead of the match, as early as possible as security checks may cause delays in entering the stadium. 

The Ajax team is already on their way to Stockholm and the Manchester team is also expected to fly today. 

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