Prosecutors drop probe into alleged violence against police at UGent eviction

Prosecutors have dismissed the investigation into alleged armed resistance by two pro-Palestinian activists against police during the eviction of a building at Ghent University (UGent). The incident on May 20 resulted in an officer sustaining injuries requiring hospitalization. However, the prosecution stated there was insufficient evidence to attribute the officer's wounds to the actions of the two activists.

"It is impossible to prove that the observed injuries are the result of the behavior of the two suspects. We must be able to demonstrate a causal link, which is insufficiently established," the prosecution explained. Consequently, the case regarding the alleged resistance has been shelved.

Separately, an investigation into vandalism committed by activists at the UGent campus continues. University officials filed a complaint regarding extensive graffiti on walls and windows, as well as disabled security cameras. During the police eviction, 44 pro-Palestinian activists were arrested. The protests at UGent began in April, with activists demanding a complete academic boycott of Israel, urging the university to cease all collaboration with Israeli entities. While the university had previously pledged to take steps following earlier protests, these were deemed insufficient by the activists.

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It is impossible to prove that the observed injuries are the result of the behavior of the two suspects. We must be able to demonstrate a causal link, which is insufficiently established.