Seven arrested as riot police clash with protesters in Doetinchem over asylum center
A protest against plans for a temporary asylum center in Doetinchem erupted into violence Thursday night, leading to seven arrests and a heavy police response, according to Omroep Gelderland.
The unrest broke out outside the town hall after the municipal council voted in favor of housing about 100 asylum seekers for three years. Only Forum voor Democratie opposed the plan.
Hundreds of demonstrators had gathered earlier in the evening. The protest began peacefully but quickly escalated. Demonstrators carried signs reading, “A road to the right, that is the state of the country, for a pure path, in our own land!!” People waved Dutch flags and shouted, “Get rid of the asylum center."
The situation escalated when heavy fireworks and stones were thrown at officers. Riot police (ME) intervened, clearing the square with multiple charges.
“The situation is calm again,” police said around 10:30 p.m. They added on X that more details about the arrests will be provided Friday.
The council meeting itself was held behind closed doors for security reasons. Barriers and surveillance cameras had been placed outside in advance, and a large police presence was on site.
Inside the chamber, council members stressed that violence was unacceptable. “Demonstrating is a right, but committing violence is not part of that,” one politician said during the livestream. “We understand the concerns among the population, but storming in, threatening, and shouting is not the solution.”
The protest was the second in a week. Demonstrators had also gathered outside the town hall the previous week when the asylum center plan was under discussion, throwing eggs and setting off fireworks.
