'Police didn't show up when Van Gogh's son was beaten up'

Twice. By young Moroccans, according to Van Gogh's parents, because Theo van Gogh was his father. Read the whole thing. The police allegedly declined to make an appearance. Not nice at all, if it's true.

The response of our fine government wasn't all that friendly either. According to Mr and Mrs Van Gogh, they actually got a phone call to ask whether or not they'd like to receive some flowers. Presumably so the government could save 20 euros if they declined.

It's always good to know they're careful with taxpayers' money, but this is ridiculous.

Update 21.43: Lots of bickering today between the police and Van Gogh's family. The police deny they've ever received reports, however, the family insists they have called for the police. GeenStijl, which is a somewhat sensational blog, reports that the police did send officers on one occassion, then ordered a retreat when the people that were looking for Van Gogh's son looked like they were carrying firearms. As Amsterdam policemen burst out in tears after hearing Mohammed Bouyeri say he had intended to kill them, this does not strike me as exceptionally unlikely. The police then, still according to GeenStijl, asked for backup, which arrived too late.

One reason for the difference in both statements may be explained as one about a technicality: calling the police does not constitute a formal declaration ('aangifte') of a crime in the Netherlands. On the other hand, there is the possibility that Lieuwe (or his family) made this all up. This would be an incredibly stupid way of exacting revenge on the police, but it is a possibility.

I'll let the bickering continue and report on this when there's more clarity.

7:58

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