3-year-old baby dies at Ter Apel centre for asylum seekers in the Netherlands

Local media has carried out the information, which was confirmed by the agency in charge of the reception of asylum seekers, COA. The reason behind the death of the child was not yet known and was being under probe, a COA spokesperson said.

As per the statement released by the organisation, “The staff of the agency is deeply shocked by this terrible event. It is specifically hard, Ter Apel.”

Furthermore, the agency has declined to specify the nationality or sex of the baby or how it ended up at the centre. “A feeling of sadness and helplessness reigns among the residents and the staff of the centre,” as stated by Ter Apel, adding that “adapted support has been provided for them.”

Because of the lack of space at Ter Apel, around 700 people had to sleep outdoors on Tuesday night.

The centre has been facing a massive influx of asylum seekers for several months now.