Amsterdam man arrested in shooting deaths of two Syrian teenagers on New Year’s Day

Police have arrested a 25-year-old man from Amsterdam in connection with the violent deaths of two teenagers on New Year’s Day in Piet Wiedijk Park, Amsterdam Nieuw-West. The arrest took place last Tuesday, the police said. A police spokesperson said the arrest was not disclosed sooner “to protect the integrity of the investigation.”

The victims, Mohammad, 16, and Mohammed, 18, were living in an Amsterdam asylum center and were originally from Syria. It is unclear if they had any connection to the suspect, and the motive remains unknown. The police spokesperson said no details would be released “to safeguard the investigation.”

The shooting occurred around 11:45 p.m. on January 1 on a bridge next to Piet Wiedijkpark, close to the Sloterplas lake. Police and medical teams responded immediately, but both Mohammad and Mohammed died at the scene despite resuscitation efforts.

Police have not confirmed a motive. However, some sources have suggested the shooting may be linked to tensions between different youth groups in the area, including a possible dispute between Syrian youths and Spanish‑speaking youths of South American background, though investigators have not officially verified this.

After the incident, police launched a major crime investigation (Team Grootschalige Opsporing). A third boy who was present that night and escaped unharmed has been sought as a potential key witness.

The 25‑year‑old has been presented to the examining magistrate and has been remanded in custody with restrictions, including only contact with his lawyer.

Whether further arrests will be made in the case remains uncertain. The police spokesperson stressed that authorities are still looking for more information and witnesses. “The investigation is continuing,” he stated.