A stabbing attack in Amsterdam near the bustling Dam Square on Thursday left four people injured, prompting a swift police response. The incident occurred around 3:30 pm on a busy street adjacent to Dam Square, a popular area in the heart of Amsterdam.
Police arrested the suspect with the assistance of a bystander after the assailant reportedly injured his leg during the scuffle. Emergency services, including ambulances and a trauma helicopter, rushed to the scene to provide medical aid to the victims.
Images from local news outlets showed one victim being transported on a stretcher into an ambulance. Police initially reported five people injured but later clarified that the suspect was among them. The condition of the four victims remains unclear as authorities continue their investigation.
Upon hearing about the attack, Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema interrupted a town hall meeting. The square was temporarily cordoned off for approximately two hours, disrupting both residents and tourists in the area.
Authorities have not yet determined a motive for the attack, but they confirmed the suspect is undergoing treatment in a hospital. This incident adds to a growing concern over public safety in Amsterdam.
Last year, the city experienced multiple stabbing attacks linked to individuals with mental health conditions. In response, Amsterdam launched a hotline allowing residents to report concerns about unusual behavior.
As the investigation continues, authorities will work to ensure the safety of the city’s residents and visitors. This attack highlights the need for awareness and vigilance in urban centers experiencing rising incidents of violent crime.
