Man (36) arrested for car break-ins at hospital parking lots in Roeselare and Kortrijk

Belgian authorities have arrested a 36-year-old man in connection with multiple car break-ins targeting vehicles parked at hospitals. The suspect was apprehended at the AZ Delta hospital in Roeselare following a report from the hospital's security personnel.

Security officers at AZ Delta noticed the man behaving suspiciously among the cars in the parking lot in late July. They had previously observed him attempting to break into vehicles. The security team immediately alerted the police, who responded swiftly and intercepted the suspect. His own car, found in the same parking lot, contained a quantity of drugs.

Further investigation has linked the 36-year-old suspect to other theft and attempted theft incidents involving cars, including those at the parking lot of AZ Groeninge hospital in Kortrijk. The investigating judge in Kortrijk has ordered the man's detention on charges of theft and attempted theft.

The regional police zone RIHO is continuing the investigation under the direction of the investigating judge. A statement from the West Flanders prosecutor's office highlighted the importance of collaboration between justice, police, and security services, noting that the quick alert from security staff and the decisive action by police and justice likely prevented further thefts and led to the suspect's arrest.