Dutch authorities detained between 150 and 200 people for trespassing after protesters broke into a Microsoft data center construction site in Amsterdam and clashed with police.
The incident occurred at the facility currently under development in the Dutch capital. Local law enforcement intervened to clear the site following the breach, resulting in mass detentions for unlawful entry.
Protesters seek to halt construction
One protester told a local broadcaster that the group’s objective was to stop the construction of the data center, according to a report from the Associated Press. The demonstration escalated when participants entered the restricted construction zone, leading to confrontations with security and police forces.
Microsoft responds to unrest
Microsoft acknowledged awareness of the demonstration and issued a statement via a spokesperson regarding the protesters' actions. “We understand that people feel strongly about the project, and we respect their right to express those views peacefully,” the spokesperson said. “However, we do not condone any actions that are unlawful or that put people’s safety at risk.”
