THE HAGUE, July 8 (Xinhua) -- The Netherlands Public Prosecution Service (OM) announced on Wednesday that it will prosecute the Dutch arm of Tata Steel of multiple criminal offenses, including the intentional and unlawful release of harmful substances into the air, potentially endangering public health.
According to the OM, Tata Steel is also suspected of breaching its duty of care by failing to carry out adequate maintenance, operating facilities without the required permits, and failing to report several incidents involving raw coke, a by-product of coal processing.
The criminal investigation was launched following a complaint filed in 2021 by a lawyer representing more than 800 local residents. Investigators focused on Tata Steel's steelmaking operations and the operation of its coke gas plants. After reviewing the evidence, prosecutors concluded that there are sufficient grounds to bring criminal charges against the company.
The OM added that, in addition to prosecuting Tata Steel as a corporate entity, it is continuing to investigate whether individuals in management positions may also be held personally liable.
Responding to the announcement, Tata Steel's Dutch company said the decision to prosecute "deeply affects the company" and that it "considers the allegations to be fundamentally unjustified."
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Nov. 20, 2026, at the Amsterdam District Court.
Earlier this year, the steelmaker was fined twice, with penalties totaling 17 million euros (19 million U.S. dollars), after regulators found it had repeatedly exceeded permitted limits for harmful emissions. Enditem
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