In recent days, several schools across the Netherlands have been targeted with online threats of shootings, prompting heightened security measures and police investigations. This alarming trend has affected educational institutions in cities such as Breda, Den Bosch, Nijmegen, and Wijchen.
Schools in Den Bosch Threatened on Social Media
On Monday evening, four schools in Den Bosch—Yuverta, ds. Pierson College, Bossche Vakschool, and Rodenborch College—were named in a threatening message circulated on social media platforms like Snapchat. The message included a photo depicting two firearms, accompanied by a menacing caption suggesting shootings would occur on Tuesday.
In response, ds. Pierson College promptly informed parents and guardians about the threat and engaged with local authorities. Despite the unsettling nature of the message, the school decided to proceed with regular classes on Tuesday after conducting a risk assessment in collaboration with the police. The police have since launched an investigation to identify the person responsible for the threatening post.
Similar Threats in Breda and Etten-Leur
This incident in Den Bosch mirrors a similar situation that unfolded on Sunday evening, where multiple schools in Breda and Etten-Leur were threatened via social media. In that case, authorities acted swiftly, and a minor female suspect with Dutch nationality was apprehended in Belgium in connection with the threats.
Heightened Security Measures and Ongoing Investigations
The recurrence of such threats has raised concerns among educational institutions and law enforcement agencies. Authorities are treating these threats with utmost seriousness, implementing visible and covert security measures to ensure the safety of students and staff. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether these incidents are isolated or part of a broader pattern.
Urgent Call for Vigilance from Schools and Parents
Parents, students, and school personnel are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The police are closely monitoring the situation and remain committed to maintaining a safe educational environment for all.
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