From early detection to decisive action: Kerkrade is working to make the city safer

In the first half of 2026, we worked in various ways to create a safe and livable city. We are increasingly focusing on preventing problems and identifying unsafe situations early on. At the same time, we take decisive action when necessary.

Identifying Problems Earlier

An important part of this is the “Social Safety Approach.” Under this approach, the municipality, the police, housing authorities, and social service organizations work closely together. By identifying problems early and addressing them collaboratively, nuisances and unsafe situations can often be prevented or resolved at an early stage. 

In the first six months of 2026, 110 cases were handled under this approach. These included neighborhood disturbances, filthy homes and yards, and situations involving people exhibiting confused behavior. Increasingly, these situations are being identified not through reports, but because “ Health ” and public safety partners are more actively present in the neighborhoods and are therefore closer to residents. This allows problems to be identified and addressed sooner.

This approach is yielding results. The number of severe measures taken in response to neighborhood disturbances is decreasing. Thanks to the “Social Safety Approach,” problems are identified and addressed earlier, and a constructive conversation or appropriate guidance is often enough to prevent the situation from getting worse.

This focus on early detection is also evident in the work of the Intervention Team. The team inspected 197 residential and commercial properties for signs of, among other things, subversive criminal activity, illegal room rentals, and other abuses. In the process, various violations were uncovered. The team also encountered people living in poor conditions. Where necessary, enforcement actions were taken, and appropriate re Health , or assistance was offered.

Taking firm action when necessary

Sometimes firm action is necessary. In the first half of 2026, twelve drug dens were shut down. Administrative measures were also taken, such as imposing fines on street dealers, issuing area bans, and issuing warnings in cases of serious residential disturbances. 

Working Together for Safety

Efforts have also been made in other ways to create a safe living environment. Since April 1, in addition to the police, the municipality has also been receiving reports through “Report Crime Anonymously.” This allows the municipality and the police to work together to determine which organization is best suited to handle a report. In the first three months alone, more than sixty reports were received.

In addition, municipal inspectors participated in a hands-on training session at a vacant commercial property in June. Together with the police and housing authorities, they practiced how to conduct inspections safely and recognize signs of subversive criminal activity.

The “ boa's ” were also very visible in the municipality. They logged 2,836 incidents in the first half of the year. These incidents may have involved handling reports, speaking with residents, or issuing a citation.

The figures show that Kerkrade is committed to prevention, collaboration, and enforcement. By identifying problems early and taking action when necessary, we are working together with our partners to create a safe and livable community for everyone.