An Italian national wanted in connection with mafia activities was picked up in Amsterdam at the beginning of this month on a European arrest warrant, police said on Thursday.

Police had been tipped off that the 33-year-old was living in Amsterdam. The man was arrested on Waterlooplein, next to the city hall and the market on September 7.

Two police officers from Italy were part of the arrest squad but the actual arrest was made by Dutch officers, the police statement said.

Last week the police announced that a special team was being set up to hunt for potential mafia members in the Netherlands. This arrest was not connected to that plan, broadcaster NOS said.

The man is being held in custody pending his deportation to Italy.