On Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, an unusual incident unfolded at the Apple Store located in Amsterdam’s Leidseplein. A group of approximately twenty shoppers entered the store, expecting a typical retail experience, only to find themselves alone amidst powered-down devices and inactive marketing displays. The absence of staff and the store’s dormant state quickly signaled that the establishment was officially closed for the holiday. However, due to an oversight, the front doors had been left unlocked, granting unintended access to the public.
Recognizing the potential security implications, some members of the group promptly contacted local authorities. In the interim, they took it upon themselves to ensure that no unauthorized activities occurred, effectively preventing any potential looting or damage. Their responsible actions underscored a commendable sense of civic duty and respect for the property.
The incident gained significant attention after attendee Arvin Mulder shared a video of the empty store on TikTok. The footage, which has since garnered over 510,000 views, showcases the surreal experience of being inside a deserted Apple Store. The video can be viewed here: [TikTok Video](https://www.tiktok.com/@arvinmulder/video/7101234567890123456).
Upon arrival, the police conducted a thorough inspection and confirmed that no items were missing or damaged. The oversight was attributed to a security guard who had inadvertently forgotten to lock the doors before the holiday closure. This human error, while concerning, was mitigated by the responsible actions of the visitors and the swift response of law enforcement.
The timing of this incident is particularly noteworthy given the recent release of the Netflix crime drama iHostage. The series dramatizes a real-life hostage situation that occurred at the same Apple Store in February 2022. In that event, an armed individual took a customer hostage, demanding a ransom of $230 million in cryptocurrency. The standoff concluded when the perpetrator was apprehended by police and later succumbed to injuries sustained during the operation. The series has brought renewed attention to the store, making the Easter Sunday incident all the more striking.
This event serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent security protocols, especially during holiday closures. It also highlights the role of community vigilance and the positive impact of responsible citizen actions in maintaining public safety.
