The new clothing Dutch Mobile Unit officers will receive after ten years is designed to offer better protection against the growing violence they face. While it’s a positive step forward, the reason behind this upgrade is a sad one. Let’s take a closer look at what this new gear means for the ME.

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 Dutch Mobile unit works with three-phase system

In the coming months, the people of the ME will be busy trying on the new clothing. It’s not just a uniform; it comes with detachable components that allow officers to adapt their protection level. This scalable gear follows a three-phase protection system, developed since 2019 and also known as the flex concept.

• Phase 1: Officers carry out their regular duties without extra protection.

• Phase 2: When threats increase, they can add protective gear.

• Phase 3: A helmet and shield are added for full protection.

The Dutch Mobile Unit is receiving new clothing — a crucial upgrade after ten years

Although I understand that the people of the ME are happy with this new clothing, the reason is somewhat less pleasant. According to the Amsterdam police chief and national portfolio holder for Conflict and Crisis Management, Frank Paauw, it is necessary. “Violence against the police has only increased. We need to better train our people to deal with it, but that also requires better equipment.”

Research shows that the sense of insecurity among ME officers has especially increased since the pandemic. But also, the fireworks thrown at them are getting heavier. Therefore, they prefer to carry more weapons with, for example, rubber bullets or paint so that rioters can be marked. Currently, this is done, among other things, through the use of body cameras. According to Paauw, there will not be more weapons for the time being because it would not fit the police culture. They are, however, looking at other ways to deal with the intense violence. And that’s how this new equipment came about.

I see happy faces during the interviews with the media, but deep down, I find it sad that we have reached this point. Where are we going if we want to destroy the people who protect us?

Greetings,

Aileen

Last update: 24/08/2025