rssOct 22, 2026, 15:37

Telegraaf: Hajar begged for help in texts: 'Help me. He is killing me'

The 29-year-old Hajar, who went missing on October 4, sent desperate text messages for help before her body was later discovered in a suitcase in an Amsterdam canal. Her family has criticized the police for not treating her initial disappearance as an urgent matter, while a 23-year-old suspect is now facing court proceedings.

On October 4, 29-year-old Hajar went missing after being seen cycling away from the RAI toward Buitenveldert with an unidentified man. Her family claims that she sent urgent text messages pleading for help, stating that she was being killed, but asserts that police did not classify the situation as an emergency for 24 hours. The victim was tragically found dead inside a suitcase in the water at the Amsteldijk in Amsterdam-Zuid on October 16.

The police have acknowledged receiving a report from the family regarding the troubling messages but have declined to provide specific details on their initial handling of the case, citing the privacy of the grieving relatives. The authorities confirmed that a 23-year-old suspect, identified as Abdi A., has been arrested in connection with the crime. The suspect is scheduled to appear before a judge, who will determine whether he will remain in custody as the investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding Hajar's disappearance and death.

Culture Amsterdam World

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

What does a violent incident do to our sense of safety on the streets? Our fear of becoming a victim is increasing

The tragic death of Hajar in Amsterdam has triggered a heightened sense of fear and insecurity among the public. Expert Marieke Liem explains that while these reactions are understandable, they can negatively impact how people perceive and navigate public spaces.

Women feel unsafe in Amsterdam, including when going out: death of Hajar sparks debate

The death of 29-year-old Hajar, whose body was found in a suitcase in Amsterdam, has prompted a public outcry regarding women's safety in the city. Mayor Femke Halsema addressed the tragedy and acknowledged widespread concerns about violence, highlighting the need for both better public infrastructure and interventions for domestic abuse.

Women's organizations want to organize vigil in memory of Hajar: "I miss the outrage"

Women's rights organizations are planning a vigil and protest march in Amsterdam to honor 29-year-old Hajar, whose body was recently found in a suitcase. The organizers hope to address concerns regarding the limited public response to her death and advocate for increased safety for women in the city.

Number of people experiencing discrimination in Amsterdam rises slightly

Nineteen percent of Amsterdam residents reported experiencing discrimination in 2024 and 2025, a slight increase from 2023. The rise is particularly evident among Jewish and Turkish residents, with many incidents occurring on the street or online despite a low overall reporting rate.

Amsterdam man (22) throws garden table and post into fire in Floradorp and receives 40 hours of community service

A 22-year-old Amsterdam resident received a community service order and jail time for participating in violent disturbances in the Floradorp neighborhood. The riots, which included arson and attacks on police, were sparked by the local rejection of a request to host New Year's bonfires.