A Dutch court in The Hague has determined that the government failed to adequately protect the family of a key witness in the Marengo murder trial, a large-scale case involving organized crime. The ruling centers on insufficient security measures taken despite credible threats against the witness’s relatives. Judges found the state liable for the consequences stemming from this lack of protection, though specific damages haven’t yet been determined. The witness, whose identity is protected, testified against a prominent criminal organization. This verdict highlights serious concerns regarding the effectiveness of the Netherlands’ witness protection program. Legal experts suggest the ruling may set a precedent for future cases involving vulnerable witnesses and their families. The case underscores the considerable risks involved when individuals cooperate with authorities in confronting organized crime.