Curfew riots continue in the Netherlands

Unrest in the Netherlands continues today as police clash with hundreds of protesters defying curfew rules.

This comes after a weekend of rioting in Rotterdam which was sparked by opposition towards new COVID-19 restrictions including a 9 pm - 4.30 am (local time) curfew and a 95 euro fine for anyone breaking it.

The curfew is the first of its kind since the Second World War.

The weekend protests included acts of arson, warning shots used by police and protesters throwing fireworks.

Around 250 arrests have been made across the country.

The riots have been described as "horror" and "criminal violence" by Prime Minister Mark Rutte, as protesters have been met with tear gas and water canons.

As the police fail to shift the protesters, an emergency order has been issued by the mayor of Rotterdam, which offers the riot police force stronger arrest powers.

It is thought that other major cities in the Netherlands will also adopt similar emergency powers and measures in order to prevent further violence.