Thaindian News

AMSTERDAM (BNO NEWS) — A disruption during a Remembrance of the Dead ceremony in Amsterdam caused panic among the thousands of visitors, injuring dozens of people and forcing security offers to escort Queen Beatrix hastily from the scene.

The incident happened on the Dam Square in Amsterdam during two minutes of silence to remember those who died during World War II. An unidentified 39-year-old man was heard screaming a text before a loud sound was heard.

People were screaming and a large crowd of people fled away in panic, pushing people to the ground and climbing over gates. Parents were seen carrying children away as the Royal Family, who were targeted in an attack just over a year ago, quickly evacuated to safety.

Prime Minister Balkenende said the incident appears to be deliberate. At a news conference, Amsterdam police said more than 50 people were injured, but their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. Queen Beatrix and Princess Maxima were visiting the injured at the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, where some of the injured were taken.

“Officers noticed during the memorial a man who spread his arms and heard an unintelligible text,” a statement from Amsterdam police read. “The man was arrested after which the crowd panicked.” Police said a second man, who dropped a suitcase, was also arrested but later released when it turned out he dropped the suitcase in panic and was not involved. Some people screamed “bomb, run!” because of the suitcase.

Police said the suspect - who is being held on a charge of disorderly conduct - has a long criminal record of theft and violence and drugs-related offenses. Dutch law would force police to release the man on Wednesday morning, unless additional charges are filed.

Police are still trying to find out what the man said to see if any additional charges may be filed.

Many of those who panicked feared an attack as happened on April 30, 2009 when a man drove his car at high speed into a parade which included the royal family. That attack killed 7 people and injured 10 others. The attackers, Karst Tates, also died.