An 82-year-old pensioner was left unconscious after confronting a fare-dodger trying to sneak through the Ganzenhoef metro station barrier in Amsterdam. The shocking attack, caught on CCTV, has sent shockwaves across the Dutch capital.
Brutal Assault Caught on Camera
The pensioner scanned her ticket at 12:20pm on 26 May when she noticed a man attempting to slip past the metro gates without paying. She stood firm, blocking his path. In response, the man shoved her from behind, then slammed his fist into her ear below the temple, followed by a hit to her chest.
Wearing a blue cap, blue shirt, light blue jeans, and a green jacket, the attacker gallantly walked away and left the station via the escalator, showing zero concern for the injured elderly woman.
Victim Left Alone and In Critical Condition
Despite shouting for help, no one was around at the deserted station. The brave pensioner then made her way to Amsterdam Central Station, hoping to find assistance. Upon seeking help from public transport staff, she lost consciousness due to her injuries.
The delay in medical care left the woman in a critical state by the time she received help.
Police Appeal to Public Five Months Later
After exhaustive investigations failed to identify the attacker, Amsterdam Police have released CCTV images and a suspect description to the public.
“The victim planned to take the metro toward the centre of Amsterdam. Her plans were abruptly disrupted around 12.20pm when she tried to check in at Ganzenhoef metro station,” the police said.
“She felt someone trying to slip through the gate behind her. She attempted to stop this by pausing.”
“In response, she was pushed in the back. She pushed back lightly, but was then shoved forward with force. The woman was then struck hard in the ear, just below the temple. After that, she was hit again in the chest.”
Suspect Description:
- Blue cap
- Blue shirt
- Light blue jeans
- Green jacket
Police stress that releasing images is a last resort after other leads ran dry, urging anyone with information to come forward and help bring the attacker to justice.
Metro Safety Under Spotlight
The attack raises serious questions about station security, especially as the victim cried out for help but was left alone in a deserted metro station. Experts warn fare-dodging violence is rising across Europe’s public transport, though assaults on elderly challengers remain rare.
This chilling incident highlights the vulnerability of older people who stand up against lawbreaking fare evaders and calls for improved safety measures across metro networks.
If you recognise the man or have information about the May 26 assault, contact Amsterdam Police immediately. Every tip counts in the hunt to catch this ruthless attacker.
