Police have arrested two people in connection with graffiti and vandalism carried out last month in the Brabant villages of Engelen and Bokhoven.
The suspects, a 52-year-old man and an 18-year-old woman from the municipality of Den Bosch, are accused of defacing homes and vehicles with what police described as “highly offensive texts”. The incidents took place during the night of 25 to 26 July and were linked to plans for a reception centre for asylum seekers.
Police have seized several items during the investigation, although they have not disclosed what those items are.
Tensions have been running high in Engelen and Bokhoven for several months over plans to house unaccompanied minor asylum seekers at an AMV centre. The Municipality of Den Bosch intends to establish the facility on an industrial estate in Engelen.
Multiple protests
The plans have divided residents. Some oppose the reception centre, while others support it. In recent months, several protests have taken place in the village. The nearby A59 motorway was blocked on multiple occasions, and the building intended for the reception centre was damaged in an explosion.
In late July, several homes and cars were vandalised. Slogans including “AMV no”, “whore” and other offensive terms were spray-painted on buildings. The Public Prosecution Service believes the acts were carried out by opponents of the planned reception centre.
Car stolen
Police are also investigating the theft of a car that was driven into the water during the same week. They said that investigation remains ongoing and is separate from the vandalism case. Earlier, police said they were looking into a possible link with the anti-asylum incidents.
Last weekend, protest signs at the business premises in Engelen were vandalised. Police are investigating those incidents as well.
Increasing paving
Police, the municipality and the Public Prosecution Service said the debate surrounding the planned AMV centre has become increasingly hostile.
“It is clear that people do not always agree with one another. There is room for that in a democracy, and that is a great asset. By all means, engage in dialogue about this with one another. With respect for mutual viewpoints,” police said.
“However, when the discussion is accompanied by criminal offences, we draw a line. That is why we have conducted a very thorough investigation into the events of the past few weeks. These arrests are the result of that.”
The two suspects were arrested following a large-scale police operation at a property in Engelen.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
