In a disconcerting turn of events, The Hague became the scene of violent clashes between two rival groups of Eritreans, prompting the deployment of police in riot gear to restore order. The confrontation unfolded at the Opera conference hall on Fruitweg Street, where two factions clashed, leading to scenes of chaos and mayhem.
After an initial confrontation inside the conference hall, the police intervened, attempting to disperse one group outside to prevent further clashes. However, the conflict spilled onto the streets, with rioters hurling bricks, debris, and even bicycles at both the conference hall and the police. The situation escalated as rioters set at least two police vehicles on fire.
Law enforcement officers, clad in riot gear, formed a protective barrier around the conference hall, while other first responders worked to address the damage inflicted on the building. The gravity of the situation led Mayor Jan van Zanen to declare a Grip 2 level regional emergency, enabling all emergency services to coordinate efforts under a unified command. Tear gas was authorized, and an emergency order empowered the police to stop and screen individuals within a 500-meter radius around the affected zone.
In response to the unsettling events, Mayor van Zanen stressed the urgency of action, stating, “The Public Prosecution Service has set up a Large-Scale Investigation Team to prosecute perpetrators of this chaos. I would like to ask everyone who can contribute to the rapid identification of the perpetrators of this unacceptable and unnecessary violence to cooperate.”
By evening, the conference hall, though damaged, was secured. A row of cars outside the building bore the scars of arson. Approximately 800 individuals sought refuge inside the hall during the riot and were safely escorted out under police protection, subsequently bused away after 10:30 pm.
Reports indicate that the clashes stemmed from opposing views on Eritrea’s current government. One group of rioters opposed the government, while the other supported it. This incident reflects a concerning pattern of violence among Eritreans in Europe, reminiscent of the events in Stockholm, Sweden, where more than 50 people were injured during an Eritrean festival in the preceding year. Anti-government protesters stormed the event, setting fire to tents, engaging in clashes with festival-goers, and confronting the police, underscoring escalating tensions within the community.
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