- This story is developing, more to follow
A mass stabbing in Amsterdam has left at least five people wounded.
The knifing took place on Sint Nicolaasstraat, near the city’s iconic Dam Square, just after 3.30pm local time (2.30pm UK time).
Live footage of the historic square shows a mass crowd gathering around a cordoned off area in front of the Royal Palace, with a trauma helicopter, ambulances and police vans in attendance.
Local media reported at least 14 cop cars and an officer on a motorcycle were at the scene. It was also reported that a fire engine had arrived at Dam Square, with its siren on.
Police have said that the suspect has been arrested. They added: ‘A motive is still unclear, but is part of our investigation.’
A police spokesperson told local media earlier that authorities had received reports of a robbery.
‘We are present at the Sint Nicolaasstraat near the Dam after a report of a stabbing incident with injuries. There is therefore a cordon, also on the Dam. More information will follow,’ the city’s police department said on X.
Trams in the surrounding area have grinded to a halt, with no service between Amsterdam Centraal and Dam Square due to the stabbing incident.
A victim of a stabbing with multiple injuries near Dam Square is helped by ambulance workers. Stabbing with Multiple Injuries Near Dam Square in Amsterdam
Live footage of the historic square shows a mass crowd gathering around a cordoned off area, with a trauma helicopter, ambulances and police vans in attendance
Police have cordoned off the local area to deal with the stabbing
Service has also stopped between Dam Square station and Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal, says a spokesperson for Amsterdam’s GVB public transport company.
The city’s mayor, Femke Halsema, was in a council meeting during the stabbing, and was called away upon being told about it.
More to follow.