Protest in Utrecht Over Police Violence Against Muslim Women
UTRECHT, Netherlands — January 30, 2026
A protest took place on Thursday in the Dutch city of Utrecht after a police officer assaulted two Muslim women, triggering widespread public anger and renewed concerns over racist police violence.
Protesters Condemn Alleged Racist Police Conduct
Demonstrators gathered at Vredenburg Square to denounce what they described as “racist violence” by the police. The protest followed an incident earlier this week in which an officer struck one woman with a baton and kicked the other in the stomach.
Participants stressed that the assault was not an isolated case. Instead, they argued that racist behavior within the police occurs repeatedly and systematically.
Calls for Accountability and Apology
During the rally, protesters demanded a public apology from the Dutch police to the victims and the wider community. They also called for concrete measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The crowd urged authorities to suspend the officer involved while the investigation continues. Protesters chanted slogans such as “No justice, no peace,” “No to racist police,” and “Fascist police, stop the terror.”
March to Police Station
After the gathering at Vredenburg Square, demonstrators marched toward the Paardenveld police station in Utrecht, maintaining a peaceful but firm stance against police misconduct.
Viral Video Sparks Nationwide Reaction
Public outrage intensified after video footage of the incident spread widely on social media. The clip shows a police officer assaulting the two women outside the Hoog Catharijne shopping mall in central Utrecht.
The footage prompted strong reactions across the country and raised serious questions about racial discrimination within Dutch law enforcement.
Police Launch Investigation
In response, the police confirmed that they have opened an investigation into the incident. Authorities stated that they will review all available video evidence.
Police also reported that they detained one of the women on suspicion of insulting an officer. However, the footage has fueled debate over whether the police response was excessive and discriminatory.
Victims Report Racist Remarks and Injuries
According to Dutch public broadcaster NOS, a police spokesperson acknowledged that the video triggered strong emotions, particularly regarding allegations of racism.
Anis Boumanjal, the lawyer representing the women, stated that the officer made several racist remarks during the incident, including telling the women, “You don’t belong in this country.”
Boumanjal added that both women suffered injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE