That’s what it writes NRC tonight† It would be a ‘very dangerous situation’, which arose when passengers got into a fight. They also allegedly turned against the security personnel.
Battles with travelers
The travelers feared they would miss their flight. According to a source of the newspaper, the safety of the security guards and other travelers was compromised. In addition, many passengers threatened to walk past the security checkpoint.
The newspaper writes that Schiphol has confirmed that ‘an incident’ had taken place at the security checkpoint at the airport. “The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee intervened when the security guards felt unsafe.”
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The Marechaussee also confirms the event to NRC: “We had to act and de-escalate because the situation was so threatening.”
Grim atmosphere
The unrest is said to have arisen after travelers, who had been waiting in line for hours for the security check, saw that some security guards were leaving their ‘security lanes’. According to the airport, this was due to a change of staff. However, the atmosphere quickly turned grim: travelers reacted aggressively. The shutter was then closed and the Marechaussee was summoned.
According to ‘an insider’ there were fights, but Schiphol and the Marechaussee did not want to confirm this.
Major staff shortage
“We understand that travelers want to travel and want to catch their flight,” said a Schiphol spokesperson. “Together with our partners, we are doing everything we can to make this possible. We call on everyone to let our colleagues do their work in a safe way.”
The airport has been struggling with a severe shortage of staff – especially security guards – for several weeks. This creates long waiting times for travelers. Schiphol previously appealed to airlines to limit the number of flights.
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