Netherlands: Police responding to rioting between opposing activist groups on Fruitweg in The Hague as of the evening of Feb. 17

Police are responding to clashes between two rival activist groups near the Opera Zalencentrum along Fruitweg in The Hague during the evening of Feb. 17. The violence reportedly broke out when supporters of the Eritrean government attempted to disrupt a function being held by an Eritrean anti-government organization. Participants reportedly threw stones and set cars on fire in the area, including police vehicles. Police have utilized tear gas in an effort to disperse the two groups. Additionally, the authorities have reportedly activated an emergency order and instructed the public to avoid the area.

Security forces will almost certainly maintain a heightened posture in the area into at least the early hours of Feb. 18; further clashes are possible. Associated crowd control measures, including road closures and other movement restrictions, are possible and could lead to localized transport disruptions.