Dutch officials have suggested that a deadly explosion in The Hague, which killed five people and injured at least four others on Saturday, may have been caused by a criminal act. Justice Minister David van Weel stated there are “indications for a crime,” though he withheld further details as investigations proceed.
The explosion occurred in the early hours in the Tarwekamp neighborhood, partially collapsing a residential building and igniting smaller blasts. Rescue workers have been combing through the debris, with several residents still unaccounted for.
Van Weel confirmed that police are examining all possibilities, including an accidental cause. “The police are investigating multiple scenarios, including the scenario of a crime,” he told reporters. Authorities are pursuing leads, including reports of a car seen leaving the area shortly after the explosion.
A police spokeswoman stressed that nothing has been ruled out. “It can be a crime, but also an accident,” she said. Forensic teams are working alongside emergency responders to gather evidence at the site. Over 20 detectives are part of a Large-Scale Investigation Team under the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof visited the site on Sunday, offering condolences to the families of victims and support to displaced residents. “Heartbreaking that there are multiple fatalities, injuries and missing people to mourn,” he said. Schoof praised emergency services for their efforts and urged the public to cooperate with investigators.
Residents affected by the blast face a difficult road ahead, with many homes destroyed or deemed unsafe. “Terrible,” Schoof remarked, pledging that authorities will bring clarity to the incident and justice to those responsible if foul play is confirmed.
Authorities have called on anyone with information about the explosion to come forward, vowing to leave no stone unturned in determining the cause and ensuring accountability.
