Ouder-Amstel boosts safety measures following murder of 17-year-old Lisa

The municipality of Ouder-Amstel is developing a new safety plan. Certain actions, like trimming vegetation and upgrading street lighting, will be carried out promptly where feasible. The announcement came on Wednesday, after the municipality held community meetings and conducted an online survey on safety and quality of life. A spokesperson for the municipality said the murder of Lisa, 17, has contributed to the heightened focus on safety, describing it as an “indirect catalyst.”

The 17-year-old from Abcoude was murdered in August in Duivendrecht, part of Ouder-Amstel. Her death led to protests calling for better safety for women in public spaces. Some municipalities had already introduced extra measures to enhance street safety. On the road where Lisa was killed, additional cameras were installed, and the lighting improved.

According to the municipality, residents at the meetings mainly highlighted issues such as dark areas, inadequate lighting, and a lack of supervision. Survey responses from 174 participants reflected similar concerns. Dark spots, in particular, were said to diminish the feeling of safety at night. Solutions like improved street lighting, more visible policing, and increased community involvement are planned to tackle these problems.

The municipality is using the feedback to develop a comprehensive action plan. “It will cover measures for oversight and enforcement, partnerships, upgrades to public spaces, digital reporting tools, and regional cooperation to ensure safe cycling routes,” officials said.

Ouder-Amstel added that some initial actions are already underway, including additional neighborhood police and enforcement officers, pruning, and enhanced lighting in identified high-risk locations.