The jewelry industry in the Netherlands is facing a surge in robberies as the price of gold hits all-time highs, industry leaders say. Gold prices have risen by 20% since the start of the year, prompting an increase in criminal activity, particularly in jewelry stores. This rise in gold prices has raised concerns among jewelers about a possible spike in robberies, according to a report by AD.
Patrick Thio, director of the Federation of Gold and Silver, confirmed that the number of robberies has increased this year compared to last, though he did not provide specific figures. “The number of attempted robberies has been rising,” Thio said. “This is worrying. While incidents are still relatively few, we are seeing more attempts than last year.”
Thio attributes the rise in robberies to the sharp increase in gold prices. “It’s the only logical explanation,” he stated. “I can’t read the minds of robbers, but it’s very likely that the price surge is behind the increase in robberies.”
Recent heists have taken place in cities such as Leeuwarden, Schoonhoven, Wateringen, Lelystad, and Rhenen. In some cases, the thieves failed to steal anything, showing that many jewelry stores are well-protected. Thio explained that most jewelry stores are equipped with high-end security features, such as bollards to prevent ram-raids, roll-down shutters, armored glass, secure vaults for after-hours storage, smoke machines to disorient robbers, motion sensors, and surveillance cameras.
“The chances of escaping with loot are slim, and the risk of getting caught is high,” Thio said. “It’s very foolish to rob a jewelry store. It not only damages the business but also harms employees.”
Despite these precautions, the growing number of attempted robberies is still a serious concern for the industry. Thio reassured the public that the Federation is working closely with law enforcement, prosecutors, and insurance companies to address the problem. “This is being taken seriously,” he said. “I believe this is just a temporary issue, not a long-term trend.”
As the gold market remains volatile, jewelers are becoming more cautious in their approach. “I hope thieves understand the serious consequences of their actions,” Thio concluded.
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