Five suspects have appeared in court on Wednesday over last month’s clashes with Israeli football supporters in Amsterdam, with charges including attempted manslaughter.
The defendants, aged between 19 and 32, are facing a three-judge panel at Amsterdam district court in sequential hearings, with two more suspects scheduled to appear Thursday. All seven face charges of public violence, prosecutors said.
The incidents occurred in the early hours of November 8 when supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv were allegedly attacked following social media calls targeting them. The violence drew condemnation from Israeli and Dutch politicians who characterised the attacks as antisemitic.
The clashes followed two days of tensions during which Maccabi fans had chanted anti-Arab songs, damaged a taxi and burned a Palestinian flag.
A 19-year-old from Monnickendam appeared first, charged with public violence near the Johan Cruyff Arena, including shouting antisemitic slogans and throwing rocks at police. Additional charges include sharing information about public violence and illegal fireworks possession.
The most serious charge of attempted manslaughter was levelled against a 22-year-old from Son en Breugel, who is accused of involvement in assaults near Amsterdam’s Dam Square following the Ajax-Maccabi match.
Police are investigating at least 45 individuals in connection with the violence. Beyond the seven defendants appearing this week, at least six others face charges, including three minors whose cases will be heard in private.
Prosecutors noted that charges have also been filed against Maccabi supporters for provocative behaviour before the match.
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