Explosion hits Dutch PM’s party office in The Hague

An explosion occurred at the office of the Dutch political party D66 in The Hague after an unidentified individual threw a firework device through the building’s mail slot, authorities said.

The incident took place at around 9:00 p.m. local time at the party’s office on Lange Houtstraat, according to Dutch broadcaster NOS. Police confirmed that the device, based on fireworks, detonated inside the premises.

Approximately one hour after the explosion, a suspect was detained. Authorities have not yet established a motive.

At the time of the blast, people were inside the building, but no injuries were reported. Party representatives said those present were badly shaken by the incident.

Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, and police cordoned off the surrounding area. Preliminary assessments indicate that the damage caused by the explosion was minor.

Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, who leads D66, condemned the incident, calling it a “cowardly act of intimidation.”

“Those who think they can instil fear, I want to say: in the democratic Netherlands, we will never allow violence to silence us,” he wrote on social media.

Around 30 people were inside the building at the time, attending an event organised by the party’s youth wing, the Young Democrats. According to the organisation’s chair, Rachelle Smook, the explosion was “incredibly loud.” Windows in the building were shattered, and heavy smoke filled the premises.

Participants of the event were evacuated through an emergency exit.

By Tamilla Hasanova