Asylum Seeker Stabs Woman in Netherlands

A woman was stabbed by an 18-year-old asylum seeker in Utrecht’s Overvecht district on Friday evening, September 19th. She was injured but is reported to be out of danger, with non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect was arrested on Saturday, though the motive remains unclear.

The incident comes shortly after the recent stabbing death of ‘Lisa from Abcoude’ by another asylum seeker, which has become a central case amid growing concerns about public safety in Dutch cities.

Utrecht Mayor Sharon Dijksma warned that municipalities can no longer handle the situation alone, advising the city council (in writing):

I am deeply concerned that we in Utrecht, but also in other municipalities, are entering a downward spiral.

She called on The Hague to provide stronger support, highlighting the lack of sufficient reception facilities and resources to manage disruptive and criminal individuals in the asylum system.

Utrecht has faced repeated problems with groups of young asylum seekers, particularly around the Bollendak area near the central station. Incidents include stabbings, fights, and theft—leaving local residents and travelers feeling unsafe.

The mayor stressed that the government must act decisively:

It’s crucial that, in addition to providing good and sufficient shelter, we also get a handle on disruptive and criminal foreign nationals. Because they pose a danger not only to fellow residents in shelters, but also to society as a whole.