Angst en explosies in Lelystad: jongerenclan blijft stad terroriseren
Lelystado, maandag, 9 februari 2026.
In Lelystad blijft de openbare orde onder druk staan. Ondanks arrestaties en politieoptredens nemen geweld en dreiging toe. Een jongerenclan, bekend als de Kempenaarbende, wordt verdacht van chantage, vernieling en drugshandel. Sinds november vinden regelmatig explosies plaats. Minstens negen keer werd er tot nu toe gesaboteerd. Taxi’s werden beschoten, huizen met vuurwerk bestookt. Een chauffeur moest vluchten met zijn zoon na een overval en een brief met de tekst: “Kom het geld brengen. Als je gaat melden, is alles voorbij.” Zijn zaak verdween uit de stad. Jonge leeftijd van verdachten schrikt niet af. Officieel heet het dat de bende is verzwakt. Feitelijk leven bewoners in angst. Sommigen sluiten zich op. Anderen vertrokken. De wet houdt achterstand.
a climate of fear persists
Residents of Lelystad continue to live under a cloud of intimidation despite official assurances. Since November 2025, nine explosions have been recorded across different city districts, signaling ongoing instability [1]. Victims report being targeted after cooperating with authorities, suggesting retaliatory motives behind the attacks [1]. One taxi driver was robbed, threatened, and forced to flee abroad with his son following extortion demands totaling 25,000 euros [1]. His company ceased operations in the city, illustrating broader societal disruption caused by organized youth crime [1].
the kempenaarbende under scrutiny
The so-called Kempenaarbende, named after the Atolwijk neighborhood, is believed responsible for much of the unrest [1]. Prosecutors acknowledge its members engaged in vandalism, threats, drug trafficking, and theft [1]. Although key suspects were detained nearly a year ago, violence has persisted [1]. Some individuals linked to the group are minors, complicating legal responses [1]. Internal conflicts within the gang reportedly led to attempted assassinations among members, indicating deep fragmentation and volatility [1]. Legal action continues but fails to reassure residents who feel abandoned by law enforcement [1].
mayor admits challenges amid criticism
Mayor Mieke Baltus confirmed that serious security incidents are affecting life in Lelystad [1]. She emphasized collaboration with police and prosecutors to restore order [1]. However, her refusal to disclose investigative details frustrates victims seeking transparency [1]. Lawyer Peter Schouten publicly criticized the municipal leadership, comparing Lelystad’s situation to violent youth gangs in Stockholm suburbs [1]. He argued that political inertia worsens community vulnerability [1]. The PVV branch in Lelystad also prioritized safety in its election program, calling for stronger measures against crime and costly prestige projects [2].
economic and social ripple effects
Beyond personal trauma, criminal activity disrupts local economies [1]. Businesses such as taxi firms shut down or relocate due to threats and physical attacks [1]. Residents retreat into isolation, some moving away altogether [1]. Educational institutions face parallel pressures; schools struggle with staffing shortages even as state funding increases [3]. Between 2026 and 2029, the Almere-Lelystad education region receives €32 million to combat teacher deficits through dual programs and lateral entry routes [3]. Yet insecurity undermines confidence in urban stability necessary for long-term investment [2][3]. Public trust remains fragile despite institutional interventions.
infrastructure debates intensify
Discussions around Lelystad Airport reignite amid concerns over regional development and noise pollution [4]. Coalition parties D66, CDA, and VVD propose using the site as a military base while allowing limited civilian flights—up to 10,000 annual movements [4]. Proponents argue it would ease congestion at Schiphol and boost economic utility [4]. Opponents warn of environmental damage and increased noise disrupting already anxious communities [4]. Any opening depends on meeting strict legal criteria including nature permits [4]. Skepticism runs high among locals wary of further destabilization masked as progress [4].