Gengelo refuses to return Ukrainians to shelter after drugs and weapons found

Search triggered by anonymous complaint

In the city of Gengelo (Netherlands), municipal authorities decided to immediately evict two brothers from Ukraine from a temporary accommodation facility. The inspection was initiated by an anonymous report.

Shelter manager Simone van Roy stated that during the inspection of the residents' housing, various types of drugs and chemical substances were found. Among them was hydrochloric acid. Tablets, mini scales, a large number of phones, and a large knife were also found in the room.

Court ruling and financial sanctions

The authorities justified the eviction as necessary to protect other residents. The brothers did not accept the decision and appealed it in court.

The court ordered the municipality to provide the men with alternative housing. A fine of €1,000 per day was established for each day the brothers remained without shelter. The total amount of sanctions could reach €60,000.

Position of the city hall and the association of municipalities

Gengelo Mayor Sander Schelberg emphasised that returning the brothers to the same overcrowded shelter poses a threat to the safety of other people and staff. The municipality stands by its eviction decision and agreed to pay the fines imposed by the court.

Representatives of the Association of Dutch Municipalities (VNG) note that similar conflicts are arising across the country. Under the European Temporary Protection Directive, Ukrainian refugees have the right to housing, even if they are evicted from a specific facility. VNG proposes reviewing the rules and creating a separate centre for offenders.

Government reaction and current status

Minister for Asylum and Migration Bart van den Brink called the brothers' actions unacceptable. He added that the government is discussing the possibility of placing such individuals in other centres, as changes to the legislation require time.

After the eviction, the men were temporarily accommodated in a hotel. The bill for the stay will likely be covered by the Gengelo municipality. From 10 November, the brothers were given a place in a shelter in a neighbouring municipality.