Passengers traveling through Wormerveer Station on Thursday afternoon encountered an extensive security operation as Dutch Railways (NS), the National Police, and Tribe Security conducted a large-scale inspection.
The operation involved temporarily halting nearly all trains passing through Wormerveer Station. Authorities expected to check a total of 68 trains, including intercity services, between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM, verifying the validity of each passenger’s ticket. This coordinated effort underscores the ongoing commitment to security and fare compliance within the Dutch rail network.
Approximately 40 ticket inspectors and 10 security personnel were deployed on the platforms. Inspectors boarded trains upon arrival to check tickets, while security staff monitored passengers exiting trains and entering the platform. The operation was designed to minimize disruption, with checks aimed to be completed within two to four minutes per train, allowing for swift departures. Trains already delayed were permitted to continue without inspection.
The operation as well included the participation of a public prosecutor and the Netherlands Foreigners Police. A total of around 80 personnel were involved in the checks, which represent the largest-scale operation of its kind to be carried out in the Zaanstreek region. The increased security presence reflects a broader trend of heightened vigilance across European transportation hubs.
Authorities indicated that the choice of Wormerveer Station was deliberate, citing reports from NS employees and the municipality of Zaanstad regarding incidents at and around the station. The location also provided sufficient logistical space to accommodate the large-scale operation. A similar inspection took place on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Voorburg Station, marking the first time NS had checked nearly all passing trains within a defined timeframe. This modern approach to security checks may be implemented more frequently in the future.
The move comes as Dutch authorities continue to address concerns about safety and security on the rail network. According to reports, there were 1,042 reported incidents of violence on the railways last year, an 8% increase from the previous year. The incident in April, where train service was briefly suspended nationwide following an assault on a conductor, further highlighted these concerns.
Justice and Security Minister David van Weel described the proposal for the return of the railway police as “sympathetic,” but noted that local authorities are responsible for deploying police officers and that the relevant mayors would need to agree to the trial. The potential return of a dedicated railway police force, which was dissolved in 2013, has been a topic of discussion among lawmakers and transportation stakeholders.
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Door Michel Schermer.
