December 13, 2016 · Team HG

You probably followed it on TV: Mayor Den Oudsten of Groningen was recently in the news because there was a sharp increase in pickpockets in Groningen's nightlife.
Koninklijke Horeca Nederland received that signal from its members and subsequently entered into consultation with the municipality and the police.
A special approach is now being taken to this problem. The municipality and police are making extra efforts, such as special police teams patrolling specifically for this during nightlife hours.
The Groningen branch of the Royal Dutch Hospitality Association has indicated that it is not in favor of a public campaign along the lines of ‘beware: pickpockets’. This sends an overly negative signal to our guests regarding the nightlife atmosphere. Therefore, the Royal Dutch Hospitality Association, in collaboration with the Ministry of Security and Justice, has devised a different campaign.
Part of this is raising awareness among guests that it is wise to look after their belongings.