The sentences for a wide range of crimes, ranging from inciting racial hatred, revenge porn and membership of a criminal organisation are to go up, broadcaster NOS said on Wednesday.

The maximum sentence for inciting racial hatred or discrimination-related violence will double to two years, the broadcaster quotes justice minister Ferd Grapperhaus as saying. In addition, suspects can be held in jail while the investigation is carried out.

The sentence for revenge porn and spreading images of a sexual nature to damage others will also go up to two years.

People convicted of being members of criminal organisation could now be jailed for 10 rather than six years, if there is evidence the gang is involved in serious crimes such as murder, drugs smuggling and kidnapping.

And pimps who work with prostitutes who don’t have residence papers face four years in jail.

The minister’s proposals will now be submitted to the Council of State advisory body for its recommendations, NOS said.