Violent incidents rise in De Oeverlanden gay cruising area in Amsterdam-West

Authorities have noted a noticeable rise in violent incidents in De Oeverlanden, a wooded recreational area close to the Nieuwe Meer in Amsterdam-West. The location is also known informally as a gay cruising spot, where men frequently meet for sexual encounters.

Police and media reports describe a range of aggressive behavior, including verbal harassment, spitting, throwing objects, and physical attacks such as beating and assault. According to these reports, the victims are predominantly gay men who frequent the area.

At least nine incidents were formally recorded in March and April 2026, according to official reports. However, police believe the real figure may be higher, since not all cases are reported. Some victims choose not to report the incidents, often out of feelings of shame or concerns about their privacy.

Police officer Martin de Jong from the police network Roze in Blauw said: “Victims sometimes want to avoid at all costs that their surroundings find out they use the cruising area. The threshold for informing the police and filing a report can then feel extremely high. I urge these victims: know that you can always contact Roze in Blauw, even if it is just to talk. Experiencing a violent incident is already very distressing, especially if you feel you cannot share your story with anyone afterwards.” Roze in Blauw is the police network specialized in crimes against the LHBTIQ+- community.

The police investigation is ongoing, but initial reports suggest the incidents are frequently committed by groups of youths, usually between 3 and 8 people. These groups may be targeting men they perceive to be homosexual. Authorities are currently examining whether this involves a single organised group or multiple separate groups of offenders.

While sexual activity in public spaces is prohibited by law, cruising in De Oeverlanden has been formally tolerated by the municipality of Amsterdam since the 1980s. The area’s status is also made clear through informational signage at the park entrances.

Authorities have stepped up monitoring in and around De Oeverlanden and are urging the public to immediately contact emergency services (112) if they witness any suspicious activity.