4 years in prison for Dutch nationals who carried out fireworks attack in Deurne

A court in Antwerp, Belgium, has sentenced two Dutch nationals to four years in prison for carrying out a fireworks attack on a residence in Deurne last year. The incident, which took place in the early morning of September 2, 2025, involved a loud explosion that damaged the front door of a house on Boekenberglei. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Surveillance footage captured a Suzuki Swift with Dutch license plates at the scene. Dutch police apprehended the vehicle the same night, finding it loaded with a significant quantity of Cobra 8 fireworks. The two Dutch individuals, identified as Derwin C. and Dennis G., were arrested immediately.

Authorities believe the attack was aimed at Anas 'Ap' O., a convicted drug criminal who led the "hotdogbende" syndicate involved in importing cocaine through the port of Antwerp. Anas O. had previously been sentenced to 40 years in prison in Antwerp. The convicted Dutch attackers left a personal threat note at the scene, stating, "Anas Ap payment step 1."

Neighbors reported previous aggressive incidents at the same residence, although no damage occurred at those times. During one prior incident, a white T-shirt bearing the same message was left behind.