You have probably followed it on TV: Mayor Den Oudsten of Groningen was recently in the news because there was a sharp increase in pickpockets in Groningen's nightlife.
Koninklijke Horeca Nederland had received this signal from its supporters and they subsequently entered into consultation with the municipality and the police.
A special approach is now being taken to this problem. The municipality and the police are making extra efforts, such as special police teams that patrol this area in a targeted manner during nighttime hours.
The Groningen Department of Koninklijke Horeca Nederland has indicated that it is not interested in a public campaign along the lines of 'beware: pickpockets'. This sends out an exaggeratedly negative signal to our guests about the nightlife climate. That is why Koninklijke Horeca Nederland has devised another campaign in collaboration with the Ministry of Security and Justice.
Part of this is stimulating the guest's awareness that it is wise to look after his/her belongings.. .