The Netherlands' counter-terrorism unit (Nationaal Coordinator Terrorismebestrijding, or NCTb) is to take extra security measures in the run up to the country's national elections on 9 June.
Political party leaders Job Cohen, Femke Halsema, Mark Rutte and Alexander Pechtold will be accompanied by bodyguards at public appearances. The bodyguards will not stay constantly at their side, as they do with Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende and Freedom Party leader Geert Wilders, but they will at all times remain visible. The NCTb has also hired two private security firms to offer advice about measures it should take during public meetings.
The head of the unit, Erik Akerboom, said last week that he is prepared for the possibility of disturbances in the weeks before the elections. Because political opinions about Islam in the Netherlands are so divided, it is not unlikely that a debate on the subject could get out of hand. Mr Akerboom did, however, note that so far there have been no concrete indications of any danger.
© Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Jan Peter Balkenende surrounded by bodyguards and journalists
Email this Article
Printer-friendly version
Post new comment
Please be reminded all comments must be in English, short and to the point - guideline 250 words. Abusive and inappropriate comments will be removed.