The Hague police investigate Malieveld demonstration violence

Police in The Hague have launched an investigation into violence and disorder during the ‘Wij zijn het volk’ demonstration held at the Malieveld on September 19. The protest involved confrontations between activists and law enforcement, during which fireworks were thrown at officers, property was damaged, and participants used face coverings despite prior agreements. Authorities also reported instances of antisemitic slogans and gestures.

Investigators are seeking witnesses and video footage to identify suspects involved in violence, criminal discrimination, and the harassment of journalists. While 24 protesters were arrested on the day for offenses including possession of prohibited weapons and ignoring emergency orders, the investigation is now expanding to look into broader incidents of excessive violence and threats against the press.

The unrest coincides with a report from the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) and the National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security (NCTV) regarding the normalization of right-wing extremism. The report, titled ‘Achter de façade’, warns that radical ideologies are becoming increasingly mainstream through the use of terms like ‘remigratie’ (remigration).