Dutch prosecutors seek prison time for Beverwijk and Haarlem gang violence

Dutch prosecutors are seeking up to two years in prison for individuals involved in a wave of violence between rival youth gangs from Beverwijk/Heemskerk and Haarlem. The conflict, which escalated in September 2025, involved several violent incidents, including an assault on a minor in Beverwijk where the victim was stripped, beaten, and kicked in the head.

Footage of the violence was shared on social media platforms like TikTok and Snapchat, accompanied by provocative text. This digital spread of violence and subsequent threats, incitement, and fake news caused significant social unrest, leading to the closure of several secondary schools in the Beverwijk and Haarlem areas.

A 24-year-old man from Heemskerk has confessed to his involvement and admitted to kicking the victim in the head. Other suspects include two men, aged 22 and 25, from Beverwijk.