28 Jun 2020 | 09:19 PM UTC
Netherlands: Police arrest protesters at The Hague June 28 /update 2
Police arrest 37 protesters at a demonstration at The Hague on June 28; further protests possible
Event
Police arrested at least 37 protesters who had gathered at the Malieveld in The Hague on Sunday, June 28. At least 200 protesters demonstrated in the area in defiance of a court restriction on public gatherings, and despite calls by organizers for participants to remain home. Protesters gathered to oppose current government regulations which state that people should remain 1.5m (5ft) apart due to the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. As of 16:00 (local time) the area had been cleared of protesters.
Further related protests are possible in urban centers, notably in The Hague, in the near term. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are also possible in the vicinity of all protest sites.
Context
Similar demonstrations took place in The Hague on May 5 and on June 21 resulting in dozens of arrests. On June 21, police used water cannons to disperse protesters in the Malieveld area.
Advice
Individuals in The Hague are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
