Netherlands: Police continuing response to violent protest along the Coolsingel in Rotterdam Nov. 19 /update 1

Event

Police in Rotterdam are continuing their response to violent protests that erupted in the city's Coolsingel area during the night of Nov. 19. The protests are in reaction to the Netherlands' COVID-19 policies.

Activists have engaged in acts of arson and vandalism along the Coolsingel, prompting police to resort to the use of riot control measures, including water canon, in an effort to disperse the protesters. Authorities have issued an emergency order prohibiting the public from being in the vicinity of the Coolsingel, as well as the Rotterdam Central and Blaak metro stations, until further notice. The Rotterdam Central station is closed due to the unrest. Clashes could continue into the early morning hours of Nov. 20.

Advice

Strictly avoid the affected area until police have restored order and given the all clear. Heed the instructions of authorities. Allow extra time to reach destinations in central Rotterdam through at least the morning of Nov. 20.