explosie-aanvallen dalen in den haag maar strijd is lang niet voorbij
Den Haag, donderdag, 5 maart 2026.
het aantal explosie-aanvallen in den haag daalde van 107 naar 78 in 2025. die daling geeft hoop maar elk incident raakt bewoners en ondernemers hard. de gemeente noemt de aanpak van criminele ondermijning een topprioriteit. 23 verdachten werden gearresteerd, een derde is minderjarig. programma’s als ‘exit’ en ‘preventie met gezag in zuidwest’ richten zich op jongeren. ook werd een dwangsom van 2.500 euro ingevoerd bij herhaling. burgemeester jan van zanen presenteerde de cijfers eind februari aan de gemeenteraad. de druk om veiliger te worden blijft hoog, juist met de komende gemeenteraadsverkiezingen.
drop in explosive attacks brings cautious relief
The number of explosive attacks in Den Haag decreased from 107 incidents in 2024 to 78 in 2025 [1]. This represents a decline of -27.103% [1]. While the reduction offers some reassurance, authorities stress that each attack deeply affects residents and businesses [1]. The city continues to prioritize combating criminal undermining through its integrated Haagse Aanpak Ondermijning strategy [1]. Investigations led to 23 arrests related to these cases, with approximately one-third being minors [1].
targeted interventions focus on youth involvement
Many perpetrators of explosive attacks are young, prompting a strong emphasis on youth prevention programs [1]. Initiatives such as ‘Preventie met Gezag in Zuidwest’ and ‘Exit’ aim to steer vulnerable adolescents away from crime [1]. A conditional fine mechanism called ‘last onder dwangsom’ was introduced, imposing a potential penalty of €2,500 if offenses recur [1]. In 2025, this measure was applied to 41 juveniles involved in drug dealing, up from 33 in 2024 [1]. Authorities see early intervention as key to breaking cycles of violence [1].
political momentum builds ahead of local elections
With municipal elections scheduled for March 18, 2026, security remains a central campaign issue among political parties [2]. Several parties propose expanded enforcement, including additional public order officers and surveillance systems [2]. Others advocate for stronger community ties and preventative social work [2]. Parties like ChristenUnie-SGP specifically call for increased funding to combat explosive violence [2]. The debate reflects broad consensus on the need for both repression and prevention in tackling organized crime [2].
future strategies emphasize evaluation and expansion
The municipality plans to evaluate the effectiveness of the Haagse Aanpak Ondermijning in 2026, using methods such as wastewater analysis to track drug-related activity [1]. Additional actions include strengthening economic oversight via HEIT, targeting human trafficking and financial crimes [1]. The recently established national Platform Ondermijning Kleine Zeehavens includes the Scheveningen port as a pilot site [1]. Extended licensing requirements in areas like Jan Luykenlaan aim to deter illicit commercial operations [1].