Employee injured in Steenokkerzeel repatriation center unrest

The repatriation center 127bis in Steenokkerzeel experienced a disturbance on Monday when several residents revolted against staff. While the exact cause remains unclear, the incident resulted in minor injuries to one employee. Security protocols were immediately enacted, and police intervention was necessary to restore order. This event underscores the inherent challenges in managing closed centers for individuals awaiting deportation.

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I can confirm that some residents revolted against the staff.

Belgian authorities have confirmed that legal proceedings will be initiated against the residents involved in the uprising. The center's management has assured that affected staff members are receiving the necessary psychological and professional support to cope with the incident. They also emphasized that this was an isolated event and not indicative of a broader unrest within the facility.

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The security procedures were immediately applied and the police services came to the scene to bring the situation under control.

It is important to note that this incident is entirely separate from the fire that occurred at the same center last week, which required fire department intervention. Immigration services acknowledge that tensions can arise in these closed environments, but maintain that staff are trained to handle such situations and ensure the safety of both personnel and residents. The focus remains on maintaining security and facilitating the repatriation process as smoothly as possible.

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Legal steps will be taken against the involved residents.