Police examining their actions at Almere exam stunt; Used batons against pupils

The police’s actions during an exam stunt at the Oostvaarders College in Almere last Wednesday will be carefully examined. Police got involved when the exam stunt escalated in the school. Officers used physical violence and batons. Three arrests were made.

According to the police, the atmosphere was tense when they arrived at the Oostvaarders College, and objects were thrown at the officers. Police emphasized that they tried to calm the situation down before using violence. They also claim to have warned the students several times that violence would be used if they did not leave the area.

“We understand that this incident stirs up emotions. Parents, young people, and teachers were witnesses to a shocking situation. This affects us too,” the police wrote.

They emphasized that they are authorized to use violence in the case of an unsafe situation, even if underage people are involved. "Violence is a severe measure, and that is why we must look at our actions critically and carefully," the police said.

Police have held talks with parents and young people who have expressed their concerns and complaints. People who feel “impacted” by the incident can report to the police. The people who were arrested during the exam stunt have since been released.

Almere’s mayor Hein van der Loo has said that the incident had “significant impact” on everyone who was present. He also said that he understands everyone’s “complaints, concerns, and outrage.”

Van der Loo emphasized that police were there to prevent further escalation and victims. The mayor will be present at a meeting organized by the school after the May holiday period, and so will the police. “It is good that everybody involved can have talks with each other.”