Large terrorism training drill in Amsterdam

Emergency services in Amsterdam will be performing training drills on how to deal with a terrorist attack in the Dutch capital on Wednesday and Thursday. The drills involve creating scenarios of terrorist attacks, and will be noticeable in various parts of the city.

The municipality of Amsterdam, police, Public Prosecutor, health services and the Special Intervention Team of Defense will train together, using people acting as terrorists and practice ammunition. Drills will take place at the Haddock restaurant, on Zeeburger Island and at the Europaplein subway station, which is not open to the public yet.

Local residents and businesses located around the training locations, will be informed about the drills by the municipality.

The terrorism threat level in the Netherlands has been substantial since 2013. This means that there is a real chance of an attack, but no concrete indications that one is being planned. Amsterdam already took numerous measures against possible terrorist attacks, such as placing concrete blocks on Dam square to prevent vehicles driving into pedestrians and extra security at large events. These drills are another way for the Dutch capital to be sure it is prepared for all eventualities.