Argument that got out of hand
It has now been a month since the Netherlands was under the spell of extreme youth violence in Beverwijk. Two rival groups from Beverwijk/Heemskerk and Schalkwijk came to blows after an argument that got out of hand during the Heemskerk festival week.
The argument turned into a hybrid conflict. Inflammatory messages and images appeared online showing the groups challenging each other. Violent videos of abuse also surfaced, even showing firearms.
Mayor issued emergency order
Beverwijk was in turmoil. Mayor Smit announced an emergency order for three days and designated parts of Beverwijk and Heemskerk as safety risk areas. The measure temporarily gave the police extra powers, such as preventive searches, vehicle checks and an increased presence on the street.
Five high schools closed their doors for one day, and the city was no longer about anything other than the violence.