Man seriously injured in Haarlem assault possibly motivated by sexual orientation

Police are investigating a violent assault in Haarlem that left a 33-year-old man seriously injured, possibly due to his sexual orientation, Hart van Nederland reports. Authorities are urging witnesses to come forward to help clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The assault occurred in the early hours between July 31 and August 1, around 2:30 a.m., on Smedestraat. The victim was with a friend when they encountered two unknown men.

The confrontation allegedly turned violent after the victim’s sexual orientation was discussed. During the attack, the man was beaten and may have lost consciousness. The victim reportedly originally fled Uganda due to persecution related to his sexuality.

Emergency responders transported him to the hospital. According to Haarlems Dagblad, the victim underwent surgery to repair severe facial injuries, including the insertion of plates and screws in his jaw and under his eye. Though now home, he continues to experience significant pain and emotional distress.