Nos student ‘gunman’ acted alone, motive still unclear

The student who forced his way into the studios of public broadcaster Nos on Thursday night has told police he acted alone and not on behalf of any terrorist organisation, news agency ANP says on Friday.

Nor was there any question of a cyber attack or hidden radioactive bombs, Tarik Zahzah is quoted as saying. The letter he took to the broadcaster along with the fake gun included such threats.

Zahzah is due to appear in court on Friday afternoon to face a remand hearing.

The motive for his actions remains unclear. Zahzah is described as a quiet, intelligent youth by friends and fellow students but not a loner. He is, however, said to have been fascinated by conspiracy theories.

Zahzah lives with his Dutch mother and stepfather in Pijnacker, where they cultivate palm trees. He is a first year student of molecular science and technology, a joint degree offered by Delft and Leiden universities.

Hilversum mayor Pieter Broertjes said on Friday that security at the Media Park where many Dutch broadcasters are based will be increased and more police will be on duty.