Fear of explosions grows as attacks surge across the Netherlands
The increasing number of explosions across the Netherlands is driving fear among residents, with thousands seeking support from victim assistance organizations. Slachtofferhulp Nederland, an agency providing support to victims, reports a sharp rise in stress-related complaints among those living near explosion sites, RTL reports.
“Explosions don’t just impact those directly affected; entire neighborhoods feel the consequences,” said Roy Heerkens, spokesperson for Slachtofferhulp Nederland. "People are truly on edge, dealing with severe stress symptoms."
Meld Misdaad Anoniem, the national anonymous tip line, recorded 540 reports related to illegal fireworks at the end of 2024, a record high. The trend reflects growing public fear about explosions, according to Heerkens. "Explosions are no longer just a big-city issue; they're happening all over the Netherlands, including in the east and north of the country."
The number of attacks involving explosives has escalated significantly in recent years. Police data shows that incidents nearly doubled from 439 in 2022 to 901 in 2023. In 2024, the figure exceeded 1,000. Most of these incidents target homes and have expanded beyond major cities to smaller municipalities across the country.
According to Heerkens, the recurring nature of explosions amplifies stress and delays recovery. "Unlike witnessing a stabbing or another isolated crime, the threat of explosions feels ongoing when no one is caught. This prolonged fear takes a heavy toll."
One hair salon in The Hague has experienced three explosions in a single year, leaving its owners terrified and their livelihood in jeopardy.
The first explosion at Adam’s* salon occurred on June 18, followed by a second on August 3 and a third on August 22. After the first incident, the business closed for two weeks. However, police ordered it to remain shut for an additional three months due to ongoing threats and uncertainty about the perpetrators.
“After the first explosion, we were deeply shaken,” Adam’s wife told RTL Nieuws. “It’s our only source of income, so we had no choice but to reopen. But then the second explosion happened.”
After the second attack, the couple installed security cameras. Weeks later, the third explosion was caught on video. Despite the evidence, police have not identified or arrested a suspect.
“We feel hopeless,” Adam’s wife said. “We don’t know why this is happening. The police haven’t found the person responsible, and we’re living in constant fear of another attack—afraid it could result in fatalities.”
The family spent New Year’s Eve at their salon, fearing it would be targeted again by perpetrators using fireworks. “You lose all trust in your surroundings. Every customer who walks in makes us wonder if they’re watching us.”
The psychological toll of these attacks is immense. “Your home, your safe space, is violated,” Heerkens explained. Victims often face difficulties returning to normal life, especially if they must temporarily leave their homes due to damage.
“Even if people return home, they’re often surrounded by chaos—debris, police investigations, and media attention. Many victims tell us the process is slow and unclear, leading to frustration and anger.”
A survey by the RTL highlights the growing sense of insecurity. Twenty-nine percent of respondents said they were somewhat or very concerned about the risk of explosions in their neighborhoods. Nearly 22 percent reported taking extra precautions, such as securing doors and gates.
In larger cities, 25 percent of respondents said explosions had occurred in their neighborhoods, compared to 7 percent nationwide. "Such incidents make people hyper-aware of their surroundings," said Gijs Rademaker, an opinion researcher for RTL Nieuws.
Residents are increasingly vocal about their concerns. One participant in the RTL Nieuwspanel survey shared a story of an explosion caused by Cobra fireworks that damaged a nearby house, forcing the family to relocate. Another described multiple attacks on a home in Schiedam-Noord once linked to a criminal.
“Criminals aren’t careful. People wonder if they could be next, especially in urban areas where neighbors aren’t well-acquainted,” Rademaker said.
