Netherlands: Assault on Disabled Man on a Tram Sparks Outrage and Calls for Enhanced Public Safety (Video)

In The Hague, Netherlands, a disabled man was assaulted on Friday evening while aboard a tram traveling from Scheveningen. He was kicked and beaten, and it remains unclear what prompted the altercation. The police are actively investigating the case and are seeking witnesses. As of now, no arrests have been made. A video capturing the violent incident is circulating online, and authorities are attempting to prevent its public dissemination, even resorting to threats of arrest against those distributing it.

The Tram Assault

The assault in the tram occurred around 8:45 PM on Jurriaan Kokstraat. Footage shows that several people targeted one man. Someone delivered the first blow, grabbing their hair, after which they were punched and kicked in the face by other passengers. “Someone also appears to make a stabbing motion towards the man,” according to the police.

Police Response

The events leading up to the assault remain unclear at this time. According to the police, the victim initially did not wish to file a report. However, in light of the seriousness of the incident, the police initiated an investigation despite the victim’s initial reluctance, as stated in a press release.

Consequently, it has been reported that the victim has since decided to file a report on the incident. A police spokesperson confirmed this development, stating, ‘The man has now also filed a report himself.’ Authorities are actively seeking witnesses to the incident. Currently, the condition of the victim has not been disclosed.”

The circulating video also shows other people filming the assault. The police are urging people not to share the footage online but to send it to the police. In addition to the video, the police are also studying the images from the tram, which HTM has shared. “We would also like to have other images taken by travelers,” says the spokesperson, who strongly emphasizes not further distributing the video via social media. “Don’t share this. Sharing these types of images is a punishable offense. Moreover, it is a very intense video.” Once again, it would appear that the police  to go to great lengths to conceal the crimes taking place in their country, showing a motivation to hide the crimes, at least equal to their motivation to solve them.

Cause

On Monday, the police stated that they could not provide further details regarding the reason for the incident at this time. They emphasized, ‘This matter is still under investigation. Nevertheless, it is important to emphasize that it is never acceptable for a group to target an individual in this manner, regardless of the circumstances.’ As of now, no witnesses have come forward in response to the police’s call for information.”

Public and Political Reaction

In response to the assault on a disabled man in The Hague, there has been significant political and public outcry. The PVV (Party for Freedom) and Hart voor Den Haag (Heart for The Hague), two Dutch political parties, have raised questions in the city council regarding the assault. The PVV wants to know if the youths involved are known to the police and when the perpetrators will be apprehended.

Geert Wilders, the leader of PVV, expressed his outrage on social media, stating, ‘In The Hague, animals hit a man with a disability. They should be apprehended, prosecuted, and locked away.'”

Den Haag.

Beesten slaan man met beperking.

Oppakken, vastzetten en de sleutel weggooien. pic.twitter.com/wuYBXPBmlx

— Geert Wilders (@geertwilderspvv) September 11, 2023

Hart voor Den Haag chairman Richard de Mos has taken to social media to condemn the violence, using the Dutch expression “Tuig van de richel,” which translates to “scum of the earth.” He squarely holds those responsible for the serious assault on a tram in The Hague accountable, suggesting that a knife may have been involved. Alongside @DamienZeller, he is not only advocating for legal punishment but also proposing a ban on public transportation for the individuals involved.

Tuig van de richel maakt zich schuldig aan ernstige mishandeling in Haagse tram, mogelijk met messengeweld. Samen met @DamienZeller pleit ik naast straf van de rechter voor een OV-verbod voor dit gajes. Raadsvragen gesteld. https://t.co/eCoYN6Lrfq pic.twitter.com/mChWQ3TYJx

— Richard de Mos 💚💛 (@RicharddeMos) September 11, 2023

Proposals for Enhanced Safety

The party has actively engaged with the city council by submitting a series of questions related to the incident, seeking further investigation and concrete actions to address public safety concerns. Some of the questions they have raised include whether the council is aware of the video showing the severe abuse of a disabled man, their reaction to the video and whether they share Hart voor Den Haag’s perspective on banning such individuals from public transport. They are also inquiring about measures to enhance passenger safety, support for additional staff for public transport services, and the possibility of equipping personnel with tools like batons.

In an official statement on their website, the party expressed their deep concern about the incident, emphasizing the urgency of taking measures to prevent such acts and protect passengers. They argue that, in addition to legal consequences, individuals involved in such acts should face permanent bans from public transport, suggesting the creation of a “black book” for this purpose.

De Mos and Party representative Damiën Zeller have reiterated their proposal for having conductors on every tram, starting with high-risk routes, to ensure a safer public transportation environment. They envision conductors with authority who can address disruptive behavior and maintain order, even advocating for their equipment with tools like batons and pepper spray for self-defense.

In the wake of this disturbing incident, public safety on trams in The Hague has become a pressing concern. As political parties raise their voices and propose measures, it remains to be seen how authorities will respond to ensure the safety of all passengers. One thing is clear: the call for change is growing louder, and the city’s response will be closely watched by its residents.

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