Police arrested more than 90 people Wednesday evening following a pro-Palestinian demonstration at Rotterdam City Hall that escalated after dozens of participants refused to leave the area despite multiple orders from authorities, police reported.
The demonstration, organized by several pro-Palestinian groups, was aimed at protesting the role of the Port of Rotterdam in the war in Gaza. The event was scheduled to end at 7:30 p.m., and while many demonstrators departed at that time, a significant number remained in violation of the terms agreed upon in advance with city officials.
According to the police, “Dozens of demonstrators did not adhere to the predetermined framework of the protest.” A number of activists also attempted to move to other locations, including the nearby headquarters of the Rotterdam police, Rijnmond regional broadcaster reported.
At that police station, four individuals have been in custody since Monday. They were arrested on suspicion of vandalizing the Rotterdam office of the Danish shipping company Maersk by spray-painting and breaking windows. Activists allege that Maersk transports weapons components to and from Israel.
The situation on Wednesday evening prompted Rotterdam Mayor Schouten to officially end the demonstration at 8:00 p.m. after it became clear that a portion of the group was not complying with police instructions. Officers issued repeated orders for the remaining demonstrators to vacate the area, and those who failed to comply were arrested on the spot.
One woman was also arrested for assaulting a police officer during the intervention.
All arrested individuals will be brought before the assistant public prosecutor as soon as possible, according to the police.
“The police supervise demonstrations at the request of the mayor to ensure the safety of both demonstrators and the surrounding area,” a police statement read. “We maintain visible presence and stay in contact with protesters to keep a finger on the pulse. Our approach aims to de-escalate any tensions when necessary. We take action when criminal offenses occur, agreements are violated, or when the health of demonstrators or bystanders is at risk.”
The police added that demonstrators are first warned by both the event’s organizers and officers. “If demonstrators do not listen, we order them—on behalf of the mayor—to leave. If they refuse, the mayor may dissolve the demonstration,” the statement continued.
Law enforcement is then responsible for enforcing the mayor’s decision. “If we give instructions to the public and they do not comply, this may lead to criminal prosecution,” police said.