Municipalities are jointly monitoring the rural areas of Land van Maas en Waal
On Friday, November 28, 2025, the municipalities of Beuningen, Druten, West Maas en Waal, and Wijchen conducted a major inspection in the rural area. Enforcers from the municipalities, the province, Gelderland-Zuid police, Uiterwaarde, and the Rivierenland Environmental Agency participated. The inspection was carried out under the name Samen Sterk in Gelderland (SSiG). In this collaboration, organizations are committed to a clean, intact, and safe rural area.
Consultations, checkups, and results
During the operation, enforcement officers spoke with residents and business owners. Approximately 60 individuals and 7 businesses were also inspected. Those who did not comply with the rules received a warning or a fine.
During the inspection, narcotics were found at two locations. Both suspects were issued citations. Three people were banned from driving for driving under the influence. Multiple citations were issued for littering, allowing dogs to run loose, using a cell phone while driving, and discharging a fire extinguisher.
Fishermen were inspected at several locations. No violations were found.
Working Together to Create a Clean and Safe Rural Area
During the inspection, enforcement officers focused on issues related to quality of life, the environment, and safety. Among other things, they looked for illegal dumping, poaching, and other suspicious activity. They also checked whether visitors were following the rules in nature and recreation areas. With the fireworks season approaching, extra attention was paid to the possession and use of fireworks.
The mayors of Beuningen, Druten, West Maas en Waal, and Wijchen consider the joint approach important. They state: "Together we work towards a safe and pleasant rural area. With these inspections, we can identify and address problems in a timely manner. We are grateful to residents and entrepreneurs for their involvement. Together we keep the Land van Maas en Waal livable."
Reports help
We work together to make rural areas safe. Residents and business owners are often the first to notice when something is wrong. They are the eyes and ears of the community. They can report issues to their local municipality when it comes to public spaces. Suspected criminal activity can be reported to the police by calling 0900 8844. Anonymous reports can be made via Report Crime Anonymously at 0800 7000 or via www.meldmisdaadanoniem.nl. In case of immediate danger, always call 112.