Ugchelen Explosion Impacts Asylum Seeker Shelter Opening

Understanding the Explosion's Impact on Ugchelen

UGCHELEN - The intended opening of the asylum seeker shelter in Ugchelen for those from Ter Apel has been pushed back indefinitely due to an explosion that occurred earlier this week. This shelter was aimed at temporarily housing about one hundred asylum seekers, but the location has suffered significant damage.

Details of the Incident

The explosion took place at the former primary school, De Bouwhof, during the night from Tuesday to Wednesday. Currently, the identity of the individual responsible and the motive behind the act remain unknown.

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• Community Pushback: A significant portion of Ugchelen residents had opposed the establishment of this overnight facility.
• The facility’s purpose was to reduce strain on the overcrowded center in Ter Apel.

On Wednesday, the municipality of Apeldoorn assured that the shelter would be operational by Friday. However, just one day later, it was confirmed that this would not be achievable.

Ongoing Damage Assessment

Jan Scholten, spokesperson for the COA, stated that the amount of damage caused by glass, soot, and smoke has made the building unsafe for use.