Rotterdam politicians question police communication after death of Alfredo Goeloe

Seven political parties in Rotterdam have submitted written inquiries to the city council regarding the communication of the Public Prosecution Service (OM) following the death of 51-year-old Alfredo Goeloe. The parties expressed concerns that the OM’s decision to disclose information about Goeloe allegedly possessing drugs could negatively impact public perception of the deceased and his grieving family.

Goeloe died following a police encounter on September 12 after being detained. While the OM initially reported he was in possession of drugs, it was later confirmed that he was not riding a stolen bicycle as suspected, but was using his wife’s fatbike to retrieve diabetes medication. The Rijksrecherche is currently investigating the circumstances of his death and the conduct of the police.

In response to the incident, the organization Controle Alt Delete is organizing a public commemoration for victims of fatal police violence on October 1 at Schouwburgplein in Rotterdam. The event aims to highlight the stories of those who died during or after police arrests.