Netherlands police arrest seven over online threats regarding Apeldoorn protests

Seven individuals have been arrested in the Netherlands following investigations into online threats linked to protests against an asylum center in Apeldoorn. The detainees, consisting of six men and one woman aged between 49 and 79, reside in various locations including Nijmegen, Ooltgensplaat, and Voorthuizen.

The arrests stem from inflammatory comments made on social media regarding footage of police interventions during demonstrations. While authorities noted that sharing footage and criticizing police actions is permitted, they stated that “some statements cross a line” into criminal threats.

The protests began after the municipality of Apeldoorn announced plans to house 240 asylum seekers in a vacant school building. Demonstrations occurred almost daily and occasionally escalated into violence, involving traffic obstructions and the throwing of fireworks at officers. Although the emergency shelter opened on June 1, it was closed a month later due to the discovery of asbestos in the building.

In addition to the recent arrests, police are investigating a previous suspect from May for potential doxing, which involves the malicious publication of personal information.