Train conductors of transport company Arriva are now allowed to use limited force against nuisance causes on trains between Zwolle and Emmen. That is what outgoing Minister Grapperhaus and State Secretary Broekers-Knol of Justice and Security write in response to parliamentary questions. This includes the use of handcuffs.
Asylum seekers from ‘safe countries’ in particular have been causing nuisance on the route. This ranges from fare evasion and vandalism to spitting and beating on train staff. The perpetrators live in the asylum seekers’ center in Ter Apel.
The province of Overijssel stated earlier this year: one million euros available to tackle the nuisance on this Vechtdal line. That money was invested in, among other things, ‘flying brigades’, or security teams that support boas on the platform and in the train.
Increase in incidents
But the extra money has not alleviated the problems. In recent months, the number of incidents even rose to record highs. The number of A-incidents, or criminal offenses such as threats and violence, increased by 62 percent. Although that number is relatively limited in absolute numbers.
The province of Overijssel called for help from the Ministry of Justice and Security to tackle the nuisance on the train. For example, the ministry has been asked for permission to give train stewards, as conductors at Arriva are called, “limited powers of violence”. This request has been granted.
In buses around Ter Apel, there is also nuisance from asylum seekers from safe countries. Bus drivers have recently taken action there:
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