Monday 19 October

Top stories of the day in Amsterdam. Go to today's brief →

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The investigation into the death of 29-year-old Hajar, who had been missing since early October, has intensified after her body was found in a suitcase in the Amstel river. Amsterdam police have issued a public appeal for information regarding an unidentified man seen with the victim near the RAI shortly before her disappearance. Read more →

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Regional transport workers across the Netherlands are set to strike this Thursday, threatening widespread disruption to bus and train services. This industrial action is part of a broader dispute over collective labor agreements, with unions threatening weekly walkouts until Christmas if negotiations remain stalled. Read more →

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Justice Minister David van Weel has retracted his criticism of Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema regarding her handling of recent protests featuring Hamas imagery. After reviewing the legal framework, the minister conceded that the mayor lacked the authority to intervene, though the government plans to introduce new legislation to curb such displays in the future. Read more →

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Rising tourist taxes and hotel VAT are increasingly squeezing Amsterdam's cultural sector, jeopardizing the viability of major events like ADE and IDFA. Organizers warn that these fiscal pressures are forcing cuts to programming and price hikes, potentially undermining the city's status as a global hub for the arts. Read more →

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Croatian police have charged 23 Hajduk Split football fans for chanting pro-Nazi and anti-Semitic slogans during violent clashes with Ajax supporters. The club has issued an official apology, as the suspects face potential prison sentences of up to 5 years under local law. Read more →

Compiled by AI from the most important headlines of the 24 hours before.