Amsterdam, 1 January 2024 (dpa/MIA) - Dutch police grappled with vandalism, arson and attacks as celebrations marking the turn of the year turned into a night of riots nationwide.

Dozens of police officers were injured, ANP news agency reported on Monday, citing police sources.

At least 200 suspected perpetrators were detained in cities across the Netherlands.

The riots were "completely unacceptable," said Peije de Meij, the coordinator of the nationwide police operations on New Year's Eve. "Unfortunately, this is the reality we always have to operate in at the turn of the year."

In several places, including Amsterdam, the riot police were confronted "with large groups of people wearing balaclavas and purposefully seeking a confrontation with the police," he said.

Some people who simply wanted to celebrate were reportedly attacked with fireworks, and houses and cars were also attacked.

In Rotterdam alone, 110 cars and electric scooters were set on fire.

Firework ban zones were ignored in many places, according to media reports.

Photo: MIA file photo