Brussels is currently experiencing a significant surge in violence, fueled by drug-related turf wars that have escalated to alarming levels this week, raising serious concerns about public safety. In a striking analogy, a local lawmaker likened the situation to an intense episode of the critically acclaimed American series The Wire, which explores the complexities of drug trafficking and its societal impacts.
Recent shootings highlight security crisis
Over the course of just a few days, two masked assailants opened fire with AK-47s outside the Clemenceau metro station, followed by another shooting incident in the Saint-Josse area, close to the European Quarter. This dangerous trend continued with subsequent gunfire at the same metro location overnight. According to the Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office, the shooters managed to escape immediately after each incident. Authorities conducted an extensive manhunt in the metro tunnels after the first shooting, successfully apprehending one suspect later on Thursday.
The violence injured three individuals, prompting immediate action from city officials. In response to the escalating crisis, Brussels Mayor Philippe Close held an emergency meeting with the mayors of the surrounding municipalities to address security concerns and collaborate with the Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office.
“Of course it’s an emergency,” Jean Spinette, mayor of Brussels’ Saint-Gilles municipality, stated. “But it has been an emergency since I became mayor two years ago.”
Drug trafficking as a catalyst for violence
The rampant crime associated with illegal drug trade has been a persistent issue in Belgium, primarily due to the significant quantities of cocaine and other narcotics infiltrating the country through the major port of Antwerp. Julien Moinil, Brussels’ Public Prosecutor, emphasized the connection between the recent shootings and drug trafficking, describing the attacks as “reprisals to win back certain territories.”
The surge in violence coincided with the formation of Belgium’s new national government, which has committed to a stringent “zero-tolerance” policy regarding drugs, particularly in and around transportation hubs. Additionally, plans to consolidate Brussels’ six police zones into a single department were included in the coalition agreement. The government aims to address the fragmented security policies that have hindered effective law enforcement in recent years.
However, as Brussels continues to navigate a lack of regional administration due to delays since the June 2024 elections, local leaders express growing frustration. Christophe de Beukelaer, group leader of the center-right Les Engagés party, criticized the political stalemate, stating, “This can no longer continue. For more than eight months, some political parties have refused to join the government, continuing to ignore the urgency of the situation. This deadlock is unacceptable and jeopardizes the safety of the people of Brussels.”
Local councilor Jérémie Tojerow echoed these sentiments, drawing parallels between the recent violence and the narrative of The Wire, which delves into the multifaceted war on drugs in Baltimore. He underscored the need for comprehensive investigations and resources to dismantle these criminal networks.
As violence continues to escalate, a coalition of 40 neighborhood committees has taken a stand, issuing an open letter to local authorities demanding prompt and effective measures to restore order in Brussels. Mayor Spinette recognized security as a paramount concern among residents, stating that the city is battling against organized crime that exploits vulnerable populations.
He highlighted Antwerp’s role as a significant source of the violence, calling for cooperative efforts between municipalities and law enforcement to combat the drug trafficking problem more effectively. The newly appointed Minister of the Interior, Bernard Quintin, assured citizens that the government recognizes the gravity of the situation and is committed to enhancing police resources and operational focus to tackle drug trafficking.
“I want to reassure all the people of Brussels and the Belgians, we are not going to reduce the resources of the police. It is not Antwerp against Brussels, but we must tackle the gateway for drugs,” Quintin stated, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts.
As the situation in Brussels reaches a critical juncture, local leaders and officials are hopeful that meaningful changes are on the horizon. Mayor Spinette expressed determination to collaborate with the new government to address pressing security issues, stressing that the safety and international appeal of Brussels as a tourist and economic hub are at stake.
“The situation is critical,” warned de Beukelaer, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to restore safety and order in the city.