Dutch leaders express solidarity as Suriname mourns nine dead in stabbing

Dutch leaders have expressed deep sympathy and solidarity with Suriname following the government’s declaration of a national day of mourning after a weekend stabbing that left nine people dead, including four children.

According to NOS, the attack occurred in Meerzorg, east of Paramaribo, on the night between Saturday, December 27, and Sunday, December 28, 2025. A 43-year-old man, whose recent relationship had ended, reportedly first attacked his own children, seriously injuring one daughter who managed to escape, before killing neighbors.

Dutch caretaker Prime Minister Dick Schoof conveyed his personal condolences to President Simons and the people of Suriname, saying, “A father who takes the lives of his own children and, in the process, kills his neighbors as well. I wish all those in mourning much strength, courage, and comfort in this unimaginably difficult time.” Rob Jetten, leader of the Dutch party D66, posted on X that he wished “all strength and support” to the victims’ families in “this unimaginably difficult time.”

Police said the man became violent after a phone call from his former partner. He threatened officers with a knife during his arrest, and they shot him in the legs before subduing him. Authorities later reported that he committed suicide in his cell the following morning.

Suriname’s government has designated Friday, January 2, 2026, as a national day of mourning. Flags at all government buildings will fly at half-staff, and citizens and businesses are encouraged to follow suit. Radio and television programming will also be adjusted. Minister of the Interior Marinus Bee said the observance is “to express sympathy and solidarity with the families, the survivors, and the entire Surinamese population.”

Suriname’s President Jennifer Simons expressed deep shock at the tragedy. “This violence affects Suriname in a period that should be marked by togetherness, hope, and reflection around Christmas and the upcoming New Year,” she said.

She instructed ministers of Justice and Police, Social Affairs and Housing, and the deputy minister of Health, Welfare, and Labor to personally assess the needs of the affected families in Commewijne and ensure that professional assistance and psychosocial support are available. The government also announced it will cover all funeral costs for the victims.