In Belgium, there is discussion about the possibility of mobilizing the army to help maintain order on the streets of Brussels in order to reduce the effects of drug crime after a series of drug-related shootings. Information comes from government sources and indicates the seriousness of the capital’s security approach.
According to the government, the Minister of Security and Home Affairs Bernard Quenten expressed support for using military forces to bolster security in the city center, and the plans are already nearing implementation. The idea envisions joint work with the police and patrolling of key districts of Brussels.
“The army should safeguard the integrity of our territory. Usually soldiers do this at our borders or far beyond them. But the war on drug crime also falls under defending our territory,”
– Bernard Quenten
The essence of the initiative is to create joint patrols with security forces: the army will join the police to patrol the most critical areas, notably near metro stations and the Peterbos district in Anderlecht in the southwest of the city.
Government coordination foresees rapid approval of the legal framework: the deployment decision should be made as quickly as possible, officials say.
Defense Minister Theo Franken confirmed on Saturday that the legal framework is ready, and the project will be submitted to the Council of Ministers soon.
“Our capital, Brussels, is a disaster from a security perspective. We need to take back control”
– Theo Franken
The proposal is part of a broader “great cities” concept, which envisages strengthening monitoring and video surveillance. In addition to the Brussels region, the plan covers Antwerp, Ghent, Liège, Charleroi and Mons, with an emphasis on reducing the impact of drug trafficking on residents’ lives.
At the same time, experts and politicians warn about the risks of mobilizing the army on civilian territory and stress the need for thorough oversight and balance between security and citizens’ rights.
Context and Consequences
The political situation in Brussels remains unstable due to a prolonged political paralysis after the 2024 elections, which calls for swift but well-considered steps in security and law and order.
The government emphasizes that the main goal is to reduce the impact of drug trafficking on the lives of the capital’s residents, while respecting human rights and ensuring transparency in the actions of law enforcement agencies.
In summary, authorities aim to find a balance between strengthening security and preserving civil liberties, while reducing the threats related to drug-related violence in Brussels and neighboring districts.