Today, police announced three arrests in connection with the major explosion in The Hague, indicating possible progress in the investigation. The forensic examination at the collapsed building on Tarwekamp will continue in the coming days.
Forensic experts have been working to find and identify victims and determine the cause of the incident. Specialist Mandy Groenewegen explained their methods for detecting even the smallest details at complex scenes.
Using sniffer dogs, detectives searched for victims and traces of flammable substances. The Disaster Victim Identification Team is responsible for identifying unknown remains through DNA, fingerprints, or dental records, as explained by team leader Johan Ekkel.
Forensic work is complicated by the ongoing recovery efforts, which can obscure evidence. The police are also analyzing chemical residues to understand the explosion’s cause.
Arian van Asten from the University of Amsterdam noted that different causes leave distinct chemical traces. Despite challenges, the police methodically search for clues.
The investigation continues with support from the Netherlands Forensic Institute and involves witness interviews and reviewing CCTV footage. The cause of the explosion remains undetermined, unlike a similar incident in Rotterdam suspected to involve a drug lab.
Source: NOS