A Dictionary of Dutchness

ME

The ME or Mobiele Eenheid is Holland’s elite riot police squad whose members are recognisable by their white helmets, batons and shields. The ME is used to control crowds at football matches, demonstrations and any other events that mayors (who are formally the head of their regional police force) decide need special policing. Should you come across a unit of ME blocking a road the chances are that they are clearing a squatted building.