Rotterdam man arrested for attempted strangulation of transgender person in Amsterdam
An 18-year-old man from Rotterdam has been arrested on suspicion of attempted manslaughter after allegedly attacking a transgender individual in their home in Amsterdam last September. The attack, which involved attempted strangulation, left the 28-year-old victim severely injured and "gasping for air", according to NOS. The police have indicated that the motive for the assault may have been linked to the victim's gender identity.
According to police reports, the victim had been meeting the suspect at their home in Amsterdam-Zuid. While sitting together on the couch, the victim answered a knock at the door. Upon opening it, two unknown men forced their way into the residence.
Once inside, the suspect reportedly held a knife to the victim's throat and dragged them down the hallway. The victim was subjected to severe physical violence, including multiple kicks and punches. The assailants allegedly encouraged one another to strangle the victim. After a period of intense aggression, the trio fled the scene, leaving the victim "gasping for air," as described by the police.
Following months of investigation, the Rotterdam man was arrested. The police suspect that the attack may have been fueled by the victim's transgender identity. "In the Netherlands, you can be who you are and love who you want. If there is clear evidence that discrimination played a role, it could lead to more severe penalties for the defendant," said a police spokesperson.
Authorities have not yet apprehended the other two assailants involved in the incident, and they remain at large. The investigation continues as police work to identify and capture the remaining suspects.
