Belgium is considering deploying the army to combat escalating drug-related violence in Brussels. Security and Home Affairs Minister Bernard Quintin believes soldiers are needed to defend the territory against drug crime, a plan nearing implementation.
Escalating Violence in Brussels
Brussels has been plagued by a surge in drug-related shootings. Last month, prosecutor Julien Moinil reported 57 shootings this year alone, with 20 occurring over the summer. Moinil, who is under police protection due to threats, has requested additional funding to improve safety, warning that innocent citizens are at risk.
Joint Police-Military Patrols
Under the proposed plan, soldiers would work in mixed teams with police, patrolling areas like metro stations and districts such as Peterbos in Anderlecht. The political decision has been made, and implementation is being pushed for as soon as possible.
Nationwide Security Plan
Minister Quintin has unveiled a 'Plan for Major Cities' to tackle drug crime across Belgium, including Antwerp, Ghent, Liège, Charleroi, and Mons. This plan includes a nationwide camera network, mixed police-military patrols, and specialist police teams.
Expanding Surveillance
The plan aims to allocate €20 million to expand and integrate surveillance cameras in large cities. Neighbourhood associations have welcomed the federal involvement and investment in cameras, but concerns remain about the presence of the army in public spaces and the lack of resources for prosecutors.
Concerns and Questions
Eric Vandezande, representing Brussels neighbourhood committees, questioned the role of soldiers and suggested that more community police officers might be more effective.
The deployment of the army is part of a broader effort to strengthen monitoring and video surveillance in major cities, aiming to take back control of the security situation.