Riot police called in after youths hurl stones, bikes at police in Scheveningen
Riot police were deployed in Scheveningen on Thursday night after a violent outbreak involving up to 300 young people who hurled stones, bicycles, glass bottles, sticks, and chairs at law enforcement officers. The unrest caused property damage, halted public transit, and prompted fierce criticism from local officials, according to NOS.
It began around 9 p.m. when an estimated 100 to 300 youths gathered along the Strandweg, responding to a call that had circulated on social media. Police said the youths appeared to have met up with the likely intention of fighting.
Shortly after gathering, the group turned aggressively on police officers, throwing heavy objects including stones and bicycles. Glass, sticks, chairs, and water bottles were also used as projectiles. At least one police car window was shattered during the attacks. Riot police were deployed to restore order as the situation rapidly deteriorated.
Despite the police response, the youths refused to disperse and continued pelting officers with objects. The violence stretched over several hours. Authorities confirmed no arrests were made, and order was only restored by midnight when most of the crowd had dispersed.
Along with officers on foot, riot police on horseback were reportedly sent in to break up the group through tactical charges. A police helicopter hovered over the area for an extended period, and the military police (marechaussee) were also deployed to support regular forces, including on the Van Alkemadelaan.
A journalist from Omroep West reported having to take cover as the scene became too dangerous to report from. “There were stones, glass, sticks, and water bottles flying through the air. The police were under heavy attack,” the reporter said. A press photographer from Regio15 also had to seek shelter due to the escalating violence.
The unrest also disrupted public transit. Local transport operator HTM reported that, on police orders, trams and buses stopped serving several stops in the area, including the Kurhaus stop.
Police issued clear warnings through loudspeakers, urging the rioters to leave. “Remove yourself from Scheveningen immediately, or force will be used.”
One local restaurant owner, who asked to remain anonymous, said his outdoor seating area was destroyed in the mayhem. “Boys jumped on police cars and smashed up my terrace. I think I’ve lost several thousand euros in revenue. I’m angry. They ruined everything. Every year something happens in Scheveningen. This is bad publicity for the area,” he told NOS.
Scheveningen falls under the municipality of The Hague. Richard de Mos, faction leader of the local party Hart voor Den Haag, has requested an emergency debate in the city council. He said those responsible should face serious consequences: “They must be dealt with very harshly.” Other city council members also condemned the riots and demanded firm action.
