A violent conflict between youth groups from Haarlem and the IJmond reportedly began on 6 September 2025, when a 17-year-old boy was severely assaulted in Beverwijk. Videos of the attack circulated on social media, and clothing, a phone, a driving licence and nearly €1,000 were reportedly stolen. Three men from Heemskerk and Beverwijk are suspected of involvement, including attempted manslaughter and violent theft.

Two days later, a 22-year-old man from Heemskerk was reportedly abducted in Beverwijk, taken to Haarlem’s Schalkwijk district, threatened with a firearm and assaulted. Videos of that attack also circulated. The violence was followed by a week of unrest, threats and false rumours in Beverwijk, Heemskerk and Haarlem. Five secondary schools in Beverwijk and Heemskerk closed on 12 September, while classes were also suspended in Haarlem and emergency measures were introduced. An 18-year-old man from IJmuiden is separately facing proceedings over the abduction and assault; that case remains pending. The three men suspected in the 6 September assault are due in court next Thursday.