Belgium Raises Terrorism Alert Level After Shooting in Brussels
Brussels, Belgium - In response to a shooting incident in Brussels, Belgium has raised its terrorism alert level, according to the AFP news agency. The highest level of alert is now in effect in Brussels, while the rest of the country is on the second-highest level.
The shooting occurred around 19:15 CEST near Sainctelette Square, located about a kilometer north of the city’s historic center, as reported by RTBF television. According to media outlets citing video footage provided by a witness, a man wearing an orange vest and helmet first fired at a person in the entrance area of a building and then targeted people in a taxi. Witnesses told Sudinfo.be that the perpetrator shouted the phrase “Allahu Akbar” (Arabic for “God is great”) during the attack. He then fled the scene on a motorcycle.
Tragically, two Swedish football fans were killed in the incident. The fans had traveled to Brussels to support their team in a qualifying match against Belgium for the European Championships. Swedish television station TV6 reported that the Swedish players announced during halftime that they would not continue with the second half of the match, a decision that was agreed upon by the Belgian team.
The Swedish national football team faced Belgium at the Heysel Stadium, approximately five kilometers away from the shooting location, in a qualifying match for Euro 2024. The match was ultimately terminated after the first half, with the score tied at 1-1.
Details about the incident have not yet been released by the police, who are still searching for the perpetrator. Police spokesperson Ilse Vande Keere stated that officers arrived at the scene promptly and secured the immediate vicinity. However, she declined to provide further information about the circumstances of the shooting.
The shooting has once again raised concerns about terrorism in Belgium, prompting the authorities to increase security measures and heighten vigilance across the country. The investigation into the incident is now being handled by the federal prosecutor’s office specializing in terrorist acts.
As the investigation continues, the people of Belgium and the international community mourn the loss of innocent lives and stand in solidarity with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
What security measures will be implemented in Brussels and the rest of Belgium following the shooting incident?
Otage, armed individuals opened fire on pedestrians before fleeing the scene. At least three people were injured in the incident.
As a result of the shooting, Belgium has raised its terrorism alert level to the highest level in Brussels. This means that security measures will be intensified in the capital city, with increased police presence and enhanced surveillance. The rest of the country will also see an increase in security measures, but at a slightly lower level.
The shooting took place in the Sainctelette Square area, which is close to the city’s historic center. The motive behind the attack is still unclear, and authorities are investigating the incident. The injured individuals were immediately taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, and their condition is currently unknown.
Belgium has been on high alert for terrorism since the deadly attacks in Brussels in 2016, which left 32 people dead and hundreds injured. Since then, the country has stepped up its security measures and has made significant efforts to prevent further acts of terrorism.
In recent years, Europe has experienced a number of terrorist attacks, with Belgium being one of the countries heavily affected. These incidents have prompted governments to take strong measures to protect their citizens and prevent acts of terrorism.
The raised terrorism alert level in Brussels serves as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the population. It allows authorities to respond effectively to any potential threats and maintain a secure environment. The public is advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Despite these measures, the incident serves as a reminder that the threat of terrorism remains present. Authorities continue to work diligently to prevent such attacks and promptly respond to any security breaches.
In response to the shooting, the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, expressed solidarity with Belgium and tweeted, “My thoughts are with the victims of the shooting in Brussels. We stand united in the face of terrorism.”
Overall, the incident in Brussels has prompted Belgium to raise its terrorism alert level, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by terrorism and the importance of maintaining strong security measures to protect the public.
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My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this tragic time. Let’s stand together against such acts of violence.
This is absolutely heartbreaking. Sending strength and support to Brussels. We must continue to unite against terrorism.