THE HAGUE, Sept. 23 (Xinhua) — A Dutch court on Tuesday handed down the first sentences linked to violent riots in The Hague over the weekend, when a protest against asylum policy erupted into clashes with police.
A 20-year-old man from The Hague received a six-week prison term, half of it suspended, for throwing sticks and stones at officers. The judge described his case as the most serious and noted that police officers had been deeply affected. The defendant expressed remorse in court.
A 49-year-old man from Amsterdam was ordered to perform 60 hours of community service, while another defendant was acquitted.
Three juvenile cases were heard behind closed doors. Two minors were ordered to perform community service and given suspended detention, while a third case was adjourned.
The unrest on Saturday injured four police officers and several journalists. Two police cars were set on fire and widespread property damage was reported.
Authorities said 37 people were arrested and a large-scale investigation is underway. Police expect more arrests and urged witnesses or anyone with video footage to come forward.
