Gun crimes in the Netherlands increased by a quarter in ten years

The number of crimes involving firearms in the Netherlands is increasing. Last year, the police counted over 7,000 gun-related crimes, such as the illegal possession or trade of weapons. Ten years earlier, that was still 5,800. That is an increase of almost a quarter, Statistics Netherlands (CBS) reported.

The statistics agency did not provide an explanation for the increase. Earlier, De Telegraaf reported, based on police figures, that underage teenagers have been carrying guns more often in recent years. The number of firearm seizures increased by 40 percent in four years.

The total number of registered crimes has been stable for six years, according to CBS. Between 2010 and 2018, this number decreased significantly every year.

The number of crimes with a major impact on victims, like burglary and violence, also remained virtually the same last year.

The most crimes were committed in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven, relative to population size.