Police allege Amsterdam Nieuw-West riots were organized on social media: Report
Riots in Amsterdam’s Nieuw-West district that culminated in multiple assaults and a tram being set ablaze were announced on social media the night before, district sources told the Telegraaf. The violent incidents on November 11 involved hundreds of youths who detonated heavy fireworks, vandalized vehicles, and attacked bystanders, which overwhelmed law enforcement efforts.
The unrest, centered around Plein ’40-’45, was reportedly organized via social media posts, which began circulating on the evening of November 10. However, “these messages are difficult for the police to interpret at that stage,” Emre Ünver, chair of the Nieuw-West district, wrote in a letter to the district committee.
The riots erupted the following evening, resulting in widespread destruction. It was a continuation of a week of unrest in Amsterdam that started when Israeli football club Maccabi Tel Aviv visited the capital for a match with Ajax.
The municipal transport service rerouted buses and trams away from the neighborhood on November 12 amid concerns of continued violence. After calls for renewed riots on November 12, community volunteers, including parents, mosque representatives, and other local leaders, patrolled the streets in high-visibility vests to deter further violence. Their efforts helped maintain order that night.
“The streets, usually vibrant with life and diversity, have become tense and feel divided,” Ünver said, referencing the broader impact of the violent events. He acknowledged the strain on communities, including Jewish, Palestinian, Moroccan, and Islamic residents.
A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of throwing an explosive device into the tram. Law enforcement continues to investigate the events, while district authorities work to provide care for affected residents.
In response to the unrest, multiple closed-door meetings were held with residents, religious leaders, and youth groups. Journalists were not permitted to attend these gatherings.
