Brussels Cracks Down on Drug Violence with Police Reinforcements, Curfews

Brussels is implementing a stringent crackdown on escalating drug-related violence, with authorities announcing a series of forceful measures to restore order in the capital. The decision comes after a noticeable increase in shootings, prompting a high-level security council meeting convened by Brussels Minister-President Boris Dilliès.

The regional security council, attended by federal ministers of Interior and Justice, the King's Prosecutor, and local police officials, activated several levers to combat the turf wars fueled by drug trafficking. Federal Interior Minister Bernard Quintin confirmed the deployment of 40 extra police officers to bolster public presence and investigative capabilities. He also advocated for increased military support in stations and metros, and proposed mandatory registration for scooters and two-wheeled vehicles to better track their use in criminal activities.

In parallel, local mayors have agreed to provide reinforcements from other police zones to support the Midi zone, which covers Anderlecht, Forest, and Saint-Gilles. This initiative aims to intensify night and day patrols in hotspots and provide investigators with the necessary resources to dismantle criminal networks. Furthermore, anti-gang and canine units will now operate under a unified command, and 20 mobile cameras will be installed in tense areas.

Beyond increased surveillance and police presence, more coercive measures have been put on the table. The Minister-President reminded municipal leaders of their authority to impose curfews or establish restricted access zones in the hardest-hit neighborhoods. These measures are intended to limit movement and enhance security, though they may face resistance. A reinforced coordination plan is also being developed to improve information flow between police, judicial authorities, local governments, and health and prevention actors, with a new regional drug commissioner expected to play a key role.

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Brussels or Kabul? The state of emergency has been surpassed.