In an effort to restore calm and safety, secondary schools in the Dutch towns of Beverwijk and Heemskerk were ordered to close for a day due to alarming incidents of youth violence. This decision affects five schools and comes in light of disturbing videos and reports of physical attacks among youths.
Authorities have traced the violence to two rival groups of young people, a situation that reportedly began last week with significant vandalism at a Beverwijk school. In response, Beverwijk Mayor Martijn Smit has placed a three-day emergency order to prevent gatherings of more than three people, designating specific areas as high-risk to preempt potential gun violence.
Mayor Smit commented on parents' fears regarding their children's safety at school, emphasizing the necessity of a temporary cessation of activities for reassurance. The decision was made following reports of violent confrontations, including a recent incident where a boy sustained serious injuries during a fight. Additionally, various streaming platforms are under scrutiny for hosting unverified videos showing horrific acts against youth, inciting further outrage within the community.
Dutch Justice Minister Foort van Oosten expressed regret over schools having to take such measures, stressing that education is a fundamental right for children. Local innovation in school safety protocols is underway, with police actively involved in maintaining order and executing preventive measures as part of the emergency mandate.
As violence persisted, local sports clubs postponed evening training sessions due to disturbances, showcasing how far-reaching the impact of youth violence has become in what otherwise would be normal community life. Caroline de Plas, leader of the BBB party, described the situation as alarming and surreal.
